The Hurricane Hazard
Tropical Storms and Hurricanes are caused by a combination of warm tropical oceans, light winds and moisture along with pre-existing weather disturbances. Hurricanes bring heavy rain, strong winds and large waves which often damage many homes, cars, buildings and trees.
Hurricanes have wind speeds of 74 mph or more, and their winds spin in an anti-clockwise direction around the centre (the "eye"). The Saffir–Simpson Hurricane Scale rates a storm 1–5 based on its present intensity, with wind speed as the determining factor.
Saffir–Simpson Scale
Very dangerous winds will produce some damage
Extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage
Devastating damage will occur
Catastrophic damage will occur
Catastrophic damage; many areas uninhabitable
Alert Levels
The Department of Emergency Management uses four progressive alert levels.
Issued when a significant weather system is detected in the area.
Issued at regular intervals when a tropical storm or hurricane is first detected in the area.
Hurricane conditions are a real possibility within 48 hours; not yet imminent.
Hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours.