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Definition: A
severe tropical storm, originating in the Atlantic Ocean,
Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico or in the eastern Pacific
Ocean and has sustained winds of 74 miles per hour, is
classified as a hurricane. These low-pressure systems
develop over warm water, generally in the tropics. If the
right conditions last long enough, a hurricane can produce
violent winds, incredible waves, torrential rains and
floods.
Hurricanes rotate in a counterclockwise direction around
an “eye” and are categorized into five levels, depending
on wind strength. There are on average six Atlantic
hurricanes each year; over a three year period,
approximately five hurricanes strike the United States
coastline from Texas to Maine. In the North Atlantic, a
distinct hurricane season occurs from June 1 to November
30, sharply peaking from late August through November.
Since these storms take time to develop and make landfall
and can be tracked, residents of hurricane-prone areas
have time to protect and prepare their property for the
coming storm and to decide if evacuation of the area is
necessary. Even with the early warnings, creating a storm
plan before a hurricane is imminent is crucial.
Before The Storm: Preparing For A Hurricane
Protecting Your Property From Hurricanes
(PDF
Format,
3 MB)
Categories Of Hurricanes
IBHS Hurricane
Information
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