How to prepare your self for a Hurricane

What is a Hurricane?

A severe tropical cyclone with sustained winds of 74 mph (64 knots) or
greater is a Hurricane. Major
hazards include high winds, heavy rainfall, flooding, storm surge and
high surf. Hurricane is the term used for systems located in the
central and eastern Pacific regions. Systems of this intensity
occurring in the western Pacific are called typhoons. Five categories
for hurricanes of various
intensities have been established.

What to do to Protect Yourself

The basic things to do:

* Listen to local radio stations for official Civil
Defense announcements and instructions.

* Evacuate, when advised, to sturdy buildings or
public shelters.

* During a warning when sirens sound, cover windows
with boards or tape.

* Secure loose objects that may blow away, such as
outdoor furniture.

* Leave areas that may flood.

* Stay indoors during high winds; stay away from
windows.

* Keep away from exterior walls and doors.

* "Be aware," the calm "eye" of the hurricane is
deceptive.

* Turn off water/electricity at the main source to
the house.

* Unplug all appliances.

Preparations:

* Have a chosen meeting location that is somewhere
other than your home.

* Have an evacuation and disaster kit ready that
includes a radio and batteries.

* Prepare a personal evacuation plan

* Assemble a disaster supplies kit

* Have Flood Insurance.

* Install Hurricane storm shutters or precut lumber
for windows.

* Remove branches and small trees that may fall on
the house.

* Stock extra food, batteries and drinking water.

Hurricanes related terms.

Flash Flood Warning means a flash flood is im
minent; take immediate action.

Flash Flood Watch means a flash flood is possible in
the area; stay alert.

Hurricane: Pronounced rotary circulation, constant
wind speed of 74 miles per hours (64 knots) or more.

Hurricane Watch is issued for a coastal area when
there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 24-36 hours.

Hurricane Warning
is issued when hurricane conditions are expected in a specified coastal
area in 24 hours or less. Hurricane conditions include winds of 74
miles an hour (64 knots) and/or dangerously high tides and waves.
Actions for protection of life and property should begin immediately
when the warning is issued.

Small craft cautionary statements. When a tropical
cyclone threatens a coastal area, small craft operators are advised to
remain in port or not to venture into the open sea.

Storm Warnings may be issued when winds of 55-73
miles an hour (48-63 knots) are expected. If a hurricane is expected to
strike a coastal area, gale or storm warnings will not usually precede
hurricane warnings.

Super Typhoon The Joint Typhoon Warning Center
classifies typhoons with wind speeds of 150 mph or more (the equivalent
to a strong Category 4 storm) as a Super Typhoon
Tropical cyclone is the general term for all cyclone
circulations that originate over tropical waters.

Tropical disturbance: Moving area of thunder storms in the
tropics that maintain an identity for 24-hours or more.

Tropical depression: Rotary circulation at surface highest
constant
wind speed 38 miles per hour (33 knots).

Tropical storm: Distinct rotary circulation, constant wind speed
ranges
39-73 miles per hour (34-63 knots).

Typhoon A typhoon is a large and
powerful tropical cyclone, a low pressure area rotating
counterclockwise and containing rising warm air that forms over warm
water in the Western Pacific Ocean. Less powerful tropical cyclones are
called Tropical Depressions and Tropical Storms.

Author: Pacific Disaster Center

The Pacific Disaster Center's mission is to provide applied information research and support for the development of more effective policies and, programs, for the disaster management. PDC give information and help during times of natural disaster. PDC Helps people during Natural calamities

Article Source: http://www.indexed-articles.com

Author: Pacific Disaster Center
The Pacific Disaster Center's mission is to provide applied information research and support for the development of more effective policies and, programs, for the disaster management. PDC give information and help during times of natural disaster. PDC Helps people during Natural calamities

Please Rate this Article

5 out of 54 out of 53 out of 52 out of 51 out of 5 

Not yet Rated