Hurricane Forecasts/Hazards

Tropical Storm

Winds above 39 mph; can be damaging and can carry as much rain as a hurricane.

Hurricane

Winds above 74 mph; can cause damage to structures and storm surge may form.

Major Hurricane

Winds above 110 mph; significant damage to structures is possible and large storm surge is likely.

Watch

Issued 26 hours in advance, indicating that tropical storm (or hurricane) force winds are possible.

Warning

Issued 36 hours in advance, indicating that tropical storm (or hurricane) force winds are likely.

Forecast Cone

Gives the likely path and range for a hurricane for the next 3 or 5 days.

Wind Probability

Gives the chance of experiencing tropical storm force winds in the next 5 days.

Wind Arrival

Gives the time of arrival of the first tropical storm winds.

Saffir-Simpson scale

A scale that categorizes hurricanes based on wind speed: Category 1 (75-95 mph) to Category 5 (over 157 mph).

Hurricane Season

Officially from June 1 to November 30, peaking August-October, influenced by warm water.

Hurricane Alley

Region characterized by warm water and cyclonic wind shear where hurricanes frequently develop.

Tropical Depression

Winds less than 39 mph.

Category 1 Hurricane

Hurricane with winds between 75-95 mph.

Category 2 Hurricane

Hurricane with winds between 96-110 mph.

Category 3 Hurricane

Hurricane with winds between 111-129 mph.

Category 4 Hurricane

Hurricane with winds between 130-156 mph.

Category 5 Hurricane

Hurricane with winds over 157 mph.

Know your Hazards

Includes wind, rain, flooding, tornadoes, storm surge, and the need for evacuation.