Hurricanes

What is a hurricane? \n A huge storm that can be up to 600 miles across and have strong winds spiraling inward and upward at speeds of 75 to 200 mph.

Hurricanes gather heat and energy from contact with warm ocean waters. Necessary conditions for a hurricane to form are low pressure system, warm ocean water, minimum temperature of 80 0 F.

Hurricanes that impact the United States form between 50 – 150 north or south of the equator.

Hurricanes usually lasts for over a week, moving 10-20 mph over the open ocean.

Evaporation from the seawater increases their power.

Hurricanes rotate in a counter-clockwise direction around an "eye."

The center of the storm or "eye" is the calmest part. It has only light winds and fair weather.

When they come onto land, the heavy rain, strong winds and large waves can damage buildings, trees and cars. Similar storms are called typhoons in the Pacific Ocean and cyclones in the Indian Ocean.

Hurricanes typically form between 5 to 15 degrees latitude north and south of the equator. The Coriolis Effect is needed to create the spin in the hurricane.

Can Hurricanes cause damage? YES!

Storm surges usually cause the most damage and death

Winds can destroy homes and uproot trees

Extensive rain can also cause major flooding

TROPICAL STORM WATCH - Tropical Storm conditions with sustained winds from 39 -74 mph are possible in your area within the next 36 hours.

TROPICAL STORM WARNING - Tropical Storm conditions are expected in your area within the next 24 hours.

HURRICANE WATCH - Hurricane conditions with sustained winds of 74 mph or greater are possible in your area within the next 36 hours. This WATCH should trigger your family's disaster plan, and protective measures should be initiated. Especially, those actions that require extra time such as securing a boat and leaving a barrier island.

HURRICANE WARNING - Hurricane conditions are expected in your area within 24 hours. Once this

WARNING has been issued, your family should be in the process of completing protective actions and deciding the safest location to be during the storm