Hurricane Paths and Hazards
North Atlantic Hurricane Paths
- main influence on paths = size and position of the Bermuda High
- high-pressure zone in the North Atlantic
- small and to the north leads to hurricanes missing coastlines and continuing on the path of the ocean
- strong and extensive guides hurricanes along the east coast of the US
- further south guides hurricanes to the Gulf of Mexico
- many hurricanes hit Florida
- hurricane Ian was one of the most powerful hurricanes to hit Florida since 1935
- it is also referred to as a tropical cyclone
Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale
- based on hurricane’s sustained wind speed
- estimates potential property damage to area where hurricane will approach and hit
- category 1: 74-95 mph
- very dangerous winds will produce some damage
- category 2: 96-110 mph
- extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage
- category 3: 111-129 mph
- devastating damage will occur
- category 4: 130-156 mph
- catastrophic damage will occur
- category 5: >157 mph
- catastrophic damage will occur
Hurricane Hazards
- strong winds
- storm surge/flood/high waves
- heavy rainfall