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Hurricanes
A hurricane is a tropical storm with winds at a constant 74 miles per hour or more. The winds rotate in a counter-clockwise direction around the "eye" (calm center) of the storm, which is typically 20-30 miles wide but can extend hundreds of miles. Hurricanes are formed over warm ocean waters when several conditions mix together: a low-pressure system, precipitation, tropical wind patterns, and warm ocean temperatures. As a general rule, the warmer the ocean temperature, the greater the intensity of the storm. Hurricanes are classified by their wind speeds, on a scale of 1-5. When hurricanes come onto land, they can cause major destruction with torrential rain, strong winds and dangerous waves called storm surges. These surges are considered far more dangerous than the wind itself.
Coastal communities along the southern Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico and eastern Pacific Ocean should be prepared for hurricanes. Because hurricanes can cause multiple hazards-storm surge, high winds, tornadoes and flooding-it is important to have a Classroom Emergency Plan that covers all of these scenarios. Residents should also have an Emergency Supply Kit on hand at all times and a "to-go" bag handy in case evacuate is necessary.
If a hurricane is imminent, you should follow all recommended steps to prepare your house or business. Turn off utilities and propane tanks, board up windows, fill up your bathtub and large containers with water, and follow instructions from authorities. Stay tuned to weather broadcasts and learn the terminology: A Hurricane Watch means you could experience hurricane conditions within 36 hours, and you should be prepared to evacuate. A Hurricane Warning means that hurricane-force winds are expected within 24 hours or less. If authorities advise residents to evacuate, leave immediately.
(Note: the term "hurricane" is used for storms in the North Atlantic Ocean, the Northeast Pacific Ocean east of the dateline, or the South Pacific Ocean east of 160E; 'typhoon' is used for storms in the Northwest Pacific Ocean west of the dateline)
Download Hurricanes Checklist (pdf)
- Ready.gov: Hurricanes
- Ready Kids: Fun and Games
- FEMA Kids: Hurricanes
- Hurricane Kids Network
- NOAA: Hurricane Awareness
States affected:
Alabama
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Mississippi
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
Rhode Island
South Carolina
Texas
Virginia