Hurricanes
By: Miss Roberts
Look at that Form!
What a Mess!
Debris is everywhere and no one is in site. You see cars tiped up onto their hoods, flood waters have fill the streets, and houses are damaged. You think, "What a mess!" You have just witnessed the effects of a horrifying, ocean monster. Tropical cyclones usually weaken when they hit land, but can cause damage or devastation when they hit where people live. Hurricanes cause wind, rain, and storm surges, which effect the natural environment, human-built environment, and even life. When a hurricane is over the ocean and far from land, its wind and large waves can be hazardous for boats and saliors out at sea. After a hurricane hits the coast, it will travel inland. When these natural disasters hit land, they weaken, but can cause tremendous damage to many things. The amount of damage depends both on the intensity of the storm and what it hits. A combination of winds, rain, and storm surge cause great damage to the human built environment, such as: buildings, power lines, roads, and automobiles. This can get extremely costly for the people. This speedy cyclone can also do damage to the natural environment, causing many changegd to it as well as the coast. Sand is worn away from the coastal areas and put in others. The waves and storm surge are able to lift and carry large rocks and even boulders. Many areas are flooded by the storm surge; along with the strong winds and floods that can thin out or destroy the forests. Heavy rains from the storm can cause flooding and mudslides. It is estimated that about 10,000 people die each year worldwide due to these vile disasters. and tropical storms. The majority of human deaths are caused by the flooding that is produced by the hurricane. Hurricanes are definitely enormous, mighty storms that can cause a huge mess!
Safety First!
Don't freak out yet, because there are things to do before, during, and after a hurricane to keep yourself safe and clean up this major mess. All Atlantic and Gulf coastal areas can be effected by hurricanes. If you live in a susceptible area, be prepare! Here are tips on how to survive a hurricane and your official safety guidelines.
Before a Hurricane:
- Make plans to secure your property. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows.
- Install straps to securely fasten your roof to the frame, this can reduce roof damage.
- Be sure trees and brushes around your home are well trimmed.
- Keep articles in your basement elevated to avoid damage from minor flooding.
- Keep a well-stocked Family Disaster Kit in case you lose power. Think about what you might need if you are isolated for many days.
During a Hurricane:
- Stay informed by monitoring the radio, TV, and internet.
- Secure your home, close storm shutters, and bring in out door objects.
- Turn off utilities if instructed to do so. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed
- Turn off any propane tanks and avoid using the phone, except for emergencies.
- Keep your vehicles fueled.
- Have a certain amount of cash available. If the power goes out, ATMs may not work.
- Make sure to have a supply of water for sanitary purposes such as cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water.
Recovering from Disaster:
Recovering from a disasters is a slow process. Safety is a primary issue, as are mental and physical well-being. For specific health, safety, and rebuilding guidelines regarding recovery of a hurricane, please go to the FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) website for further information.