Hurricane Prep
One of the greatest possible causes of death during a hurricane is storm surge, when ocean winds create a force that pushes water toward the shore. This causes a tide that can increase the water level at least 15 feet, and waves on top of this increased water level can increase flooding. Storm surge is a major threat along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts, which are densely populated with many communities that are at or near sea level.
Viewer Tip: With the potential for Tropical Storm Gustav to affect the Gulf Coast, it is especially important to make sure you have an evacuation plan, route, and destination in place. If you can, arrange to stay with a relative or friend that lives closest to the area outside of the evacuation zone, or stay at a hotel or motel outside of the evacuation zone. If these options are not available, head for a public shelter in your area. If asked to evacuate, leave as soon as possible – traffic delays and congestion should be expected during an evacuation, and may extend the amount of travel time required to reach your destination. Don’t forget to plan for pets, too – most shelters will not accept pets, and companion animals should not be left behind.
Check it out: NOAA Coastal Storms Program, NOAA Regional Team, and the Gulf of Mexico Alliance have developed a “Gulf Storms” website. http://masgc.org/gulfstorms/index.htm, with the latest info, safety tips, and recovery information.
Seasons: Summer, Fall
(Sources: National Hurricane Center: Storm surge http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/HAW2/english/storm_surge.shtml)
