Hurricanes are powerful storms with winds over 155 mph that can cause widespread damage from wind, rain, and flooding, both along coasts and far inland. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June to November; the Eastern Pacific season is May to November.
Before a Hurricane
To prepare for a hurricane, take the following measures:
-
Emergency Kit & Plan: Create a kit and family communication plan.
-
Know Your Risk: Check flood zones, evacuation routes, and property elevation.
-
Secure Property: Install storm shutters, trim trees, clear gutters, reinforce doors, and bring in outdoor items.
-
Other Preparations: Consider flood insurance, install a generator, and prepare a safe room.
Hurricanes cause heavy rains that can cause extensive flood damage in coastal and inland areas. Everyone is at risk and should consider flood insurance protection. Flood insurance is the only way to financially protect your property or business from flood damage.
Know the Terms
Familiarize yourself with these terms to help identify a hurricane hazard:
-
Tropical Cyclone: A rotating storm system over warm ocean waters with strong winds and heavy rain.
-
Tropical Depression: A cyclone with winds up to 38 mph.
-
Tropical Storm: Winds range from 39 to 73 mph.
-
Hurricane: Winds of 74 mph or more.
-
Storm Surge: A dangerous rise in sea level caused by a storm, potentially over 20 feet high.
-
Storm Tide: The total water level during a storm (storm surge + normal tide).
-
Hurricane Watch: Hurricane possible within 48 hours.
-
Hurricane Warning: Hurricane expected within 36 hours.
-
Tropical Storm Watch: Tropical storm possible within 48 hours.
-
Tropical Storm Warning: Tropical storm expected within 36 hours.
-
Category 1 (74–95 mph): Minor damage; power outages likely.
-
Category 2 (96–110 mph): Major damage; uprooted trees, longer outages.
-
Category 3 (111–129 mph): Devastating; limited water/electricity.
-
Category 4 (130–156 mph): Catastrophic; major structural damage.
-
Category 5 (157+ mph): Most homes destroyed; area may be uninhabitable.
During a Hurricane
If a hurricane is likely in your area, you should:
-
Listen to News: Stay informed via radio/TV.
-
Evacuate If Needed: Especially in mobile homes, high-rises, flood zones, or when ordered by officials.
-
Shelter In Place: Stay indoors, away from windows, in a secure interior room.
-
Water Supply: Fill bathtubs/containers for cleaning and toilet flushing.
If you are unable to evacuate, go to your wind-safe room. If you do not have one, follow these guidelines:
-
Stay indoors during the hurricane and away from windows and glass doors.
-
Close all interior doors, and 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 and 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.
-
Avoid elevators.
After a Hurricane
-
Wait for the All-Clear: Return home only when it’s deemed safe.
-
Avoid Hazards: Steer clear of floodwaters, downed power lines, and damaged structures.
-
Inspect and Document Damage: Take photos for insurance; use flashlights (not candles).
-
Food & Water Safety: Discard spoiled food; ensure water is safe.
-
Protect Pets: Keep pets under control; beware of wild animals and snakes.
-
Generator Safety: Never use indoors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Àrachas Group is committed to helping you and your loved ones stay safe when disaster strikes. For further personal risk management guidance, contact us today.
