Hurricane Preparation
All the ways to prepare for a hurricane!
Supplies Needed for a Hurricane
When preparing for a hurricane you need to use supplies that do not require lots of electricity. Supplies like radios and flashlights are a necessity. Since they are battery operated, extra batteries will be needed.
Batteries
Be sure to have various types of batteries for your safety items.
First Aid Kit
First Aid should be handy at all times. Be sure to have all first aid necessities like: band aids, ointments, and rubbing alcohol. Also, remember to pack prescription medications.
Blankets
Be sure to have extra blankets in your safety place. Temperature is not predictable and the loss of electricity is very possible which means no heat!
What will you eat?
In order to prepare for a hurricane you must bring non perishable food items. These foods can include: peanut butter, crackers, nuts, canned meats, and dried fruits. Also remember to bring lots of bottled water!!
What to do? Where to go?
Evacuation Route
In order to prepare for a hurricane you may want to be aware of the evacuation routes in your town. Familiarize yourself with the safe places in your town.
Generator
A generator is a good item to have during a hurricane. Like most bad weather, electricity can be lost during a hurricane.
Cover windows
In order to protect your home, attempt to prevent damage by covering the windows, reinforcing garage doors, and making sure the trees are well trimmed (this produces wind resistance)
The Formation of Hurricanes
What starts the storm?
Hurricanes gather their energy from warm ocean waters. Water evaporation increases their intensity. Hurricanes can rotate either clock wise or counter clockwise.The center of the storm is called the "eye" and is the calmest part. Having only light winds and fair weather. When they come onto land, the heavy rain, strong winds and large waves can cause lots of destruction.
How bad can hurricanes be?
Hurricanes can travel far and move very fast. There are five categories that are used to classify hurricanes. The categories are as follows:
Category 1: Minimal damage on land
Category 2: Moderate damage on land
Category 3: Extensive damage on land
Category 4: Severe damage on land
Category 5: Catastrophic damage on land
Famous Storms
The deadliest US hurricane is the Galveston Hurricane of 1900. This hurricane hit land on September 8, 1900 in Galveston Texas. It is estimated that 6000-8000 people were killed. The severity of the storm could not accurately be detected because advanced weather predicting technology did not yet exist. Also, Galveston was a huge tourist spot during this time period and the weather warnings which were issued by the US Weather Bureau were dismissed by the tourists and the residents. The city was soon flooded by a 15 foot storm surge and numerous buildings and homes were destroyed. Following the hurricane a flood prevention wall was built.