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
\