The Anatomy of a Hurricane

Hurricane: hur·ri·cane (noun)

1. A storm with a violent wind, in particular a tropical cyclone in the Caribbean. 
Synonyms: storm-tornado-gale-tempest-typhoon-whirlwind

Facts: 

¨ On average hurricanes are about 300 miles wide although they can vary in size.

¨ The eye at a hurricane's center is a calm, clear area around 20-40 miles across.

¨ The “eye wall” surrounding the eye is composed of dense clouds that contain the strongest winds in the storm.

¨ The storm's outer rain bands are made up of dense bands of  thunderstorms They range a few miles to tens of miles wide and 50 to 300 miles

¨ Hurricane-force winds can extend out to about 25 miles in a small hurricane and to more than 150 miles for a large one. Storm-force winds can stretch out as far as 300 miles from the center of a big hurricane.

¨ Usually, the right side of a hurricane is the most dangerous in terms of storm surge, winds, and tornadoes.

¨ A hurricane's speed and path depend on ocean and atmospheric interactions, including the presence or absence of other weather patterns. This complexity of the flow makes it very difficult to predict the speed and direction of a hurricane.

¨ Do not focus on the eye or the track–hurricanes are immense systems that can move in complex patterns that are difficult  to predict. Be prepared for changes in size, intensity, speed, and direction.

Safety Tips:.
Pre-Season

• Enter the season prepared.
• Know all evacuation routes if you live close to the coast.
• Make sure your home meets building codes for withstanding hurricanes, and they have storm shutters.
• Have proper tools, supplies, and a first aid kit.
• Have plenty of batteries and flashlights
• Always have plenty of non-perishable foods on hand.

Watch or Warning in effect:

• Leave low lying areas.
• Protect windows with plywood boards, or storm shutters.
• Secure outside objects.
• Make sure you have plenty of fuel and water.
• Have several days supply of food and water for each family member.
• If called to evacuate, do so immediately.

Before the storm

• Be ready to put your plan and preparation into action.
• Pay attention to local weather reports on radio, television, or the internet.
• Have house boarded up, or have storm shutters in place.
• Have plenty of food and water.
• Make sure all your tools, supplies, and first aid kit available for use.
• Have a secure room available.

During the storm

• Stay in Secure Room.
• Stay away from windows.
• Do not use the phone, or candles.
• Monitor Weather and Civil Service Bulletins on either regular or NOAA radio.
• Have supplies on hand.
• Remain indoors when the eye moves over your area because the storm will resume shortly.

After the storm

• Make sure that all is definitely clear outside, and the storm has completely passed before going out.
• Report downed power lines, and stay away from them.
• Use stored water and food.
• Be patient. Things will take a while before they get back to normal.