Hazards: Hurricanes

Hurricanes are severe tropical storms with sustained winds of 74 miles per hour or greater. Hurricane winds can reach 160 miles per hour and extend inland for hundreds of miles.

Hurricanes bring torrential rains and a storm surge of ocean water that crashes into land as the storm approaches. Hurricanes also spawn tornadoes.

Hurricane advisories are issued by the National Weather Service as soon as a hurricane appears to be a threat. The hurricane season lasts from June through November.

Hazards: Hurricanes

Planning Considerations

Other Hazards

Hazards: Fire

Hazards: Hazardous Materials Incidents

Hazards: Floods and Flash Floods

Hazards: Tornadoes

Hazards: Severe Winter Storms

Hazards: Earthquakes

Hazards: Technological Emergencies

Planning Considerations

The following are considerations when preparing for hurricanes:

Ask your local emergency management office about community evacuation plans.
Establish facility shutdown procedures. Establish warning and evacuation procedures. Make plans for assisting employees who may need transportation.
Make plans for communicating with employees' families before and after a hurricane.
Purchase a NOAA Weather Radio with a warning alarm tone and battery backup.
Listen for hurricane watches and warnings.
Hurricane Watch -- A hurricane is possible within 24 to 36 hours. Stay tuned for additional advisories. Tune to local radio and television stations for additional information. An evacuation may be necessary.
Hurricane Warning -- A hurricane will hit land within 24 hours. Take precautions at once. If advised, evacuate immediately.
Survey your facility. Make plans to protect outside equipment and structures.
Make plans to protect windows. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection.
Covering windows with 5/8' marine plywood is a second option.
Consider the need for backup systems:
- Portable pumps to remove flood water
- Alternate power sources such as generators or gasoline-powered pumps
- Battery-powered emergency lighting

Prepare to move records, computers and other items within your facility or to another location.

Last Modified: Tuesday, 21-Mar-2006 08:36:51 EST