2021 Hurricane Preparation Guide

Page 27 10 things to know about storm surges STAFF REPORT Storm surge from a hurricane is often the greatest threat to life and property. 1. It poses a significant threat for drowning. A mere 6 inches of fast-moving floodwater can knock over an adult. It takes only 2 feet of rushing water to carry away most vehicles — including pickups and SUVs. 2. It can cause water levels to rise quickly and flood large areas —sometimes in just minutes. You could be left with no time to take action if you haven't already evacuated as instructed. 3. Storm surge values do not correspond well to the hurricane wind categories (of the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale) that range from 1 to 5. These categories are based only on winds and do not account for storm surge. 4. Tropical storms, Category 1 or 2 hurricanes, major (Category 3 to 5) hurricanes and post-tropical cyclones can all cause life-threatening storm surge. 5. Storm surge also can occur with non-tropical storms such as nor'easters and other winter storms. 6. Many U.S. Gulf and East Coast areas are vulnerable to storm surge, including areas several miles inland from the coastline. Find out if you live in a storm surge evacua- tion zone. 7. Storm surge can occur before, during or after the center of a storm passes through an area. It can cut off evacuation routes, so do not delay leaving if an evacuation is ordered for your area. 8. During the peak of a storm surge event, it is unlikely emergency responders will be able to reach you if you are in danger. 9. Even if your community is not directly affected by storm surge, there still could be hazardous conditions such as impassable roads, water and sewage problems and power outages. If power remains on, downed electrical wires can pose an electrocution risk. 10. Weather conditions and forecasts can change and storm surge may occur with little warning. Pay attention to evacuation orders and other instructions from local officials. For more information, go to nhc.noaa.gov. SHUTTERSTOCK Category 1: 74-95 mph Very dangerous winds will produce some damage: Well- constructed frame homes could have damage to roof, shingles, vinyl siding and gutters. Large branches of trees will snap and shallowly rooted trees may be toppled. Extensive damage to power lines and poles likely will result in power outages that could last a few to several days. Category 2: 96-110 mph Extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage: Well-constructed frame homes could sustain major roof and siding damage. Many shallowly rooted trees will be snapped or uprooted and block numerous roads. Near-total power loss is expected with outages that could last from several days to weeks. Category 3: 111-129 mph Devastating damage will occur: Well-built framed homes may incur major damage or removal of roof decking and gable ends. Many trees will be snapped or uprooted, blocking numerous roads. Electricity and water will be unavailable for several days to weeks after the storm passes. Category 4: 130-156 mph Catastrophic damage will occur: Well-built framed homes can sustain severe damage with loss of most of the roof struc- ture and/or some exterior walls. Most trees will be snapped or uprooted and power poles downed. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas. Power outages will last weeks to possibly months. Most of the area will be uninhabit- able for weeks or months. Category 5: 157 mph or higher Catastrophic damage will occur: A high percentage of framed homes will be destroyed, with total roof failure and wall collapse. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas. Power outages will last for weeks to possibly months. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months. — www.nhc.noaa.gov Types of damage due to hurricane winds

• Cover