Hurricane Survival Information

General information

Hurricanes are violent tropical storms with sustained winds of at least 74 mph. They form over warm ocean waters – usually starting as storms in the Caribbean or off the west coast of Africa. As they drift slowly westward, the warm waters of the tropics fuel them. Warm, moist air moves toward the center of the storm and spirals upward. This releases torrential rains. As updrafts suck up more water vapor, it triggers a cycle of strengthening that can be stopped only when contact is made with land or cooler water. Hurricane season is typically from June 1st to November 30th.

HURRICANE TERMS TO REMEMBER:

Tropical Depression - an organized system of clouds and thunderstorms with a defined circulation and maximum sustained winds of 38 mph (33 knots) or less.
Tropical Storm - an organized system of strong thunderstorms with a defined circulation and maximum sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph (34-63 knots).
Hurricane - a warm-core tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of 74 mph (64 knots) or greater.
Eye - center of a hurricane with light winds and partly cloudy to clear skies. The eye is usually around 20 miles in diameter, but can range between 5 and 60 miles.
Eye Wall - location within a hurricane where the most damaging winds and intense rainfall are found.

HURRICANE SCALE:

Category I - 74-95 mph winds with 4-5 ft. storm surge and minimal damage
Category II - 96-110 mph winds with 6-8 ft. storm surge and moderate damage
Category III - 111-130 mph winds with 9-12 ft. storm surge and major damage
Category IV - 131-155 mph winds with 13-18 ft. storm surge and severe damage
Category V - 155+ mph winds with 18+ ft. storm surge and catastrophic damage

HURRICANE WARNINGS:

Tropical Storm Watch - issued when tropical storm conditions may threaten a specific coastal area within 36 hours, and when the storm is not predicted to intensify to hurricane strength.
Tropical Storm Warning - winds in the range of 39 to 73 mph can be expected to affect specific areas of a coastline within the next 24 hours.
Hurricane Watch - a hurricane or hurricane conditions may threaten a specific coastal area within 36 hours.
Hurricanes Warning - a warning that sustained winds of 74 mph or higher associated with a hurricane are expected in a specified coastal area in 24 hours or less.

PLAN RESPONSIBILITIES: There will be many things to take care of after a hurricane. Make a plan with your family, friends, and neighbors assigning specific responsibilities to each person. Remember that it may be difficult to get around after a hurricane, so each person's tasks should be related to where they may be.

DEVELOP A MESSAGE DROP: You need to identify a secure location outside your home were family members can leave messages for each other. This way, if you're separated and unable to remain in your home, your family will know where to go to find you. You don't want to publicize that you are not at home. That is why this location should be secure and discrete. i.e. under a paving stone, inside a tin can, in the back yard, etc.

SAFEST PLACE IN YOUR HOME: During a hurricane, stay away from heavy furniture, appliances, large panes of glass, shelves holding heavy objects, and masonry veneer (such as the fireplace). These items tend to fall or break and can injure you. Know the danger spots, (windows, mirrors, hanging objects, fireplaces and tall furniture).

KNOW YOUR ENVIRONMENT: Always know all the possible ways to exit your house and work place in hurricane situations. Try to discover exits that would only be available to you in an emergency.
Know your open and safe areas that are way from buildings, trees, telephone and electrical lines, overpasses, or elevated expressways. Know the location of the shutoff valves for water, gas, and electricity. Learn how to operate the valves. If you are not sure, contact your utility company.

CONDUCT PRACTICE DRILLS: Physically place yourself and your children in safe locations. Always know all the possible ways to exit your house and work place in a hurricane situation. Try to discover exits that would only be available to you in an emergency.

ALWAYS:

Keep a full tank of gas in your car if an evacuation seems likely. Gas stations may be closed during emergencies and unable to pump gas during power outages. Plan to take one car per family to reduce congestion and delay.
Make transportation arrangements with friends or your local government if you do not own a car.
Listen to a battery-powered radio and follow local evacuation instructions.
Gather your family and go if you are instructed to evacuate immediately.
Leave early enough to avoid being trapped by severe weather.
Follow recommended evacuation routes. Do not take shortcuts; they may be blocked.
Be alert for washed-out roads and bridges. Do not drive into flooded areas.
Stay away from downed power lines.

WHEN TIME PERMITS:

Gather your disaster supplies kit.
Wear sturdy shoes and clothing that provides some protection, such as long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and a cap.
Secure your home by closing and locking doors and windows.
Unplug electrical equipment, such as radios and televisions, and small appliances, such as toasters and microwaves. Leave freezers and refrigerators plugged in unless there is a risk of flooding.
Let others know where you are going.

EVACUATE WHEN:

If you are directed by local authorities to do so. Be sure to follow their instructions.
If you live in a mobile home or temporary structure—such shelters are particularly hazardous during hurricanes no matter how well fastened to the ground.
If you live in a high-rise building—hurricane winds are stronger at higher elevations.
If you live on the coast, on a flood plain, near a river, or on an inland waterway.
If you feel you are in danger.

IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO EVACUATE:

If you are unable to evacuate, go to your safe room.
If you do not have safe room, stay indoors during the hurricane and away from windows and glass doors.
Close all interior doors—secure and brace external doors.
Keep curtains and blinds closed. Do not be fooled if there is a lull; it could be the eye of the storm - winds will pick up again.
Take refuge in a small interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest level.
Lie on the floor under a table or another sturdy object.

The 2007 Hurricane Survival Guide for the Capital Area can be downloaded here .