Hurricanes are severe tropical storms that form in the southern Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico and in the eastern Pacific Ocean. People who live in hurricane prone communities should know their vulnerability, and what actions should be taken to reduce the effects of these devastating storms. Disaster kits or "Go-bags"  can be used to save lives at work, home, while on the road, or on the water.

       You may need to survive on your own after an emergency. This means having your own food, water, and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least three days. Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster, but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours, or it might take days. In addition, basic services such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment, and telephones may be cut off for days, or even a week or longer.

A hurricane watch means a hurricane is possible in your area. Be prepared to evacuate. Monitor local radio and television news outlets or listen to NOAA Weather Radio for the latest developments.

A hurricane warning is when a hurricane is expected in your area. If local authorities advise you to evacuate, leave immediately.
Hurricanes are classified into five categories based on their wind speed, central pressure, and damage potential. Category Three and higher hurricanes are considered major hurricanes, though Categories One and Two are still extremely dangerous and warrant your full attention

Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale Scale Number (Category) Sustained Winds (MPH) Damage

1)                   74-95 mph                           Very dangerous winds will produce some damage

                      Minor damage to exterior of homes
                      Toppled tree branches, uprooting of smaller trees
                      Extensive damage to power lines, power outages

2)                   96-110 mph                         Extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage

                      Major damage to exterior of homes
                      Uprooting of small trees and many roads blocked
                      Guaranteed power outages for long periods of time – days to weeks

3)                   111-130 mph                       Devastating damage will occur

                       Extensive damage to exterior of homes
                       Many trees uprooted and many roads blocked
                       Extremely limited availability of water and electricity

4)                    131-155 mph                       Catastrophic damage will occur

                       Loss of roof structure and/or some exterior walls
                      Most trees uprooted and most power lines down
                       Isolated residential due to debris pile up
                       Power outages lasting for weeks to months

5)                    More than 155 mph               Catastrophic damage will occur

                       A high percentage of homes will be destroyed   
                       Fallen trees and power lines isolate residential areas
                        Power outages lasting for weeks to months
                        Most areas will be uninhabitable