Hurricane
Hurricanes are severe storms that are formed in warm tropical ocean waters. A smaller hurricane is called a tropical storm. It is also referred to as a cyclone or typhoon in Southeast Asia. When a hurricane comes onto land, it brings along heavy rains and winds, as well as large waves. As the hurricane travels inland it will eventually die down.
Before a hurricane
- Learn about your community’s emergency plans, warning signals, evacuation routes, and emergency shelters.
- Identify potential home hazards and know how to secure or protect them before the hurricane strikes. Be prepared to turn off electrical power when there is standing water, fallen power lines and orders to evacuate. Secure unstable materials.
- Make plans to ensure pet safety.
When a hurricane watch is issued
- Fill your vehicle’s gas tank.
- If no vehicle is available, make transportation arrangements with friends or family.
- Gather your emergency supplies.
- Turn on the radio or television for weather updates.
- Listen for disaster sirens and warning signals.
- Secure any items outside which may damage property in a storm, such as bicycles, barbeques etc.
- Cover windows and doors with plywood or boards or place large strips of masking tape on windows to reduce the risk of breakage and flying glass.
- Put livestock and family pets in a safe area. Due to food and sanitation requirements, emergency shelters cannot accept animals.
- Place vehicles under cover, if at all possible.
- Fill sinks and bathtubs with water as an extra supply for washing.
- Adjust the thermostat on refrigerators and freezers to the coolest possible temperature.
- Listen for instructions from emergency officials.
If you are ordered to evacuate
- Take only essential items with you.
- If you have time, turn off the gas, electricity and water.
- Follow designated evacuation routes; others may be blocked – expect heavy traffic.
If you are ordered not to evacuate
- Monitor the radio or television for weather conditions.
- Stay indoors until authorities declare the storm is over.
- Do not go outside, even if the weather appears to have calmed – the calm “eye” of the storm changes quickly, leaving you outside when strong winds resume.
- Stay away from all windows and exterior doors. Seek shelter in a bathroom or basement, or you can find some shelter if you cover yourself with plywood or other materials.
- Prepare to evacuate to a shelter or to a neighbor’s home if your home is damaged or if you are instructed to do so by emergency personnel.