Hurricanes gather heat and energy from the contact with warm ocean waters. Evaporation from the ocean increases their power. Hurricanes rotate in a counter-clockwise direction around an "eye" in the Northern Hemisphere. The rotate in a clockwise direction in the Southern Hemisphere. The calmest part is the center of the storm referred to as the “eye of the storm”. When hurricane came upon land the heavy rain, strong winds and large waves can usually damages buildings, trees, cars, bridges and more. Hurricanes form over water that is 80°F or warmer.
The Atlantic hurricane season starts June 1 and thankfully ends November 30, just in time to let us enjoy the holiday season. In the Eastern Pacific the hurricane season begins May 15 and ends November 30.
TROPICAL STORM WATCH are conditions with sustained winds from 39 -74 mph
TROPICAL STORM WARNING means that Tropical Storm conditions are expected in your area within the next 24 hours.
HURRICANE WATCH means that Hurricane conditions with sustained winds of 74 mph or greater are possible in your area. this is when a family's disaster plan comes must be initiated.
HURRICANE WARNING means that Hurricane conditions are expected in your area within 24 hours and your family should be in the process of securing your home or possibly evacuating.
COASTAL FLOOD WATCH means there is the possibility flooding of land areas along the coast within the next 12 to 36 hours.
COASTAL FLOOD WARNING means that land areas along the coast are expected to become, or have become flooded.
SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY means that a warning issued by the National Weather Service, most frequently in coastal areas. Usually issued when winds are expected to reach within the next 12 hours, a speed marginally less than that which is considered gale force, usually 25-38 mph.
Make sure to have a disaster plan and a pet plan ready before a storm threatens. For more information on the proper measures to take in case of a hurricane please visit http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare/ and make sure to follow their guidelines.
©2014 Paula Santos (paulasantos.com) all photos and posts.
