Hurricanes are violent tropical storms with sustained winds of at least 74 mph. They form over warm ocean waters – usually starting as storms in the Caribbean or off the west coast of Africa. As they drift slowly westward, they are fueled by the warm waters of the tropics. Warm, moist air moves toward the center of the storm and spirals upward. This releases torrential rains. As updrafts suck up more water vapor, it triggers a cycle of strengthening that can be stopped only when contact is made with land or cooler water.
| More About Hurricanes |
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. Here is a list of what you can do to prepare for a hurricane. | Hurricane Preparations |
If you live in Florida, here is step-by-step hurricane preparation instructions. If you start in early May, you're sure to be ready by the beginning of hurricane season, June 1.
- Sign Up to Volunteer or Donate
- Register NOW for Assistance
- Begin Making a Plan
- Stash Cash
- Ready Your Yard
- A Safe Place
- Tag... You're It! Designate a Contact Person
- Pet Plans
- Important Documents
- Start a Shopping List
- Shopping for Food
- Items for Infants and Elderly
- Gas Up!
Do you have cancer? There are eight steps for hurricane preparation when you have cancer that you need to consider.
Do you own a boat? These helpful hurricane tips are for you:
So you've followed all the preparations – you've made a plan, you've filled up your car's gas tank, you've gathered all the supplies for your disaster kit and your valuable documents are tucked away in a waterproof container. Now what? No one has told you what to do now. How do you keep yourself and your family safe when the hurricane arrives? Here are some basic safety tips to follow.
| What To Do During and After a Hurricane |
