HomeMy WebLinkAboutHurricane Preparedness Guide HURRICANES
Unleashing Nature ' s Fury
Uisible and
Thermal Data
Hurricane
Iniki
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Hurricane Iniki,September 11,1992
A PREPAREDNESS GUIDE
National Weather Service
Honolulu Forecast Office
Hawaii County Civil Defense
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ow Q American Red Cross
Hawaii State Chapter
May 2010
What is a Hurricane?
The term hurricane has its origin in the indigenous
religions of past civilizations.The Mayan storm god was A hurricane is a type of tropical cyclone-an organized
named Hunraken.A god considered evil by the Taino rotating weather system that develops in the tropics.
people of the Caribbean was called Huracan.Hurricanes Hurricanes rotate counterclockwise in the Northern
may not be considered evil but they are one of nature's Hemisphere.Tropical cyclones are classified as follows:
most powerful storms.Their potential for loss of life
and destruction of property is tremendous.Those in • Tropical Depression—An organized system of
hurricane-prone persistent clouds and thunderstorms with a closed
areas need to low-level circulation and maximum sustained
be prepared for winds of 38 mph(33 knots)or less.
hurricanes and . Tropical Storm—An organized system of strong
' tropical storms. thunderstorms with a well defined circulation and
Even inland areas, maximum sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph(34-63
;.: well away from knots).
the coastline,
`t can experience • Hurricane—An intense tropical weather system
rk. destructive with a well-defined circulation and sustained winds
winds,tornadoes of 74 mph(64 knots)or higher. In the western
z and floods from North Pacific,hurricanes are called typhoons,
tropical storms and and similar storms in the Indian Ocean are called
hurricanes. cyclones.
Hurricane Iniki,September 11,1991 1NOAA
In the Western North Pacific,the term typhoon is used
instead of hurricane and'Super Typhoon"is used
On average each year 4 to 5 tropical cyclones,which when sustained wind speeds exceed 150 mph. In the
include tropical depressions,tropical storms,and South Pacific,the term cyclone is used for tropical
hurricanes,develop in or move into the central north cyclones,regardless of strength.
Pacific Ocean,defined as the area north of the Equator
from 140W longitude to the International Date Line.
Approximately one-third of these tropical cyclones reach
hurricane strength. increase due to growing population on our coastlines.
Federal agencies,such as the Federal Emergency
While hurricanes pose the greatest threat to life and Management Agency(FEMA),and organizations such
property,tropical depressions and tropical storms can as the American Red Cross,have combined with state
also be devastating. Floods from heavy rains and severe and local agencies,rescue and relief organizations,
weather can cause extensive damage and loss of life. the private sector and the news media to improve
In August 1994,heavy rainfall associated with Tropical preparedness efforts.
Depression One-C produced widespread flash flooding <-
along the windward coast of the Big Island. Over 14
inches of rain was recorded during 12 hour period. All
hurricanes,tropical storms,and tropical depressions a t'
K
should betaken seriously.
Tropical cyclones are sometimes steered by weak and
erratic winds,making forecasting a challenge.Warnings
issued from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration's(NOAA) National Hurricane Center and 5..
Central Pacific Hurricane Center continue to improve
and provide timely predictions to help reduce loss of life
and mitigate property loss in the United States.Despite
improved warnings,property damage continues to -
Damage from Hurricane Camille,August 11,1969/NOAA
2
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2009 Tropical Cyclone Tracks
Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale
The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale is a 1 to 5 rating based on the hurricane's sustained wind speed.This scale
estimates potential property damage.Hurricanes or Typhoons reaching Category 3 and higher are considered
major hurricanes because of their great potential for loss of life and damage.Category 1 and 2 storms are still very
dangerous and warrant preventative measures. For more detailed information on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale
for Hawaii,please visit:www.weather.gov/cphc/pages/aboutsshs.php.
Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale
Category 1 Hurricane:
Sustained winds 74-95 mph(64-82 kt or 119-153 km/hr).Damaging winds are expected.Some damage to
building structures could occur,primarily to unanchored structures(such as school portables). Damage to
signs. Loose outdoor items become projectiles. Numerous broken branches from large trees and smaller
trees uprooted. Hurricane Iwa(passing just northwest of Kauai in 1982)and Hurricane Dot(landfall on Kauai
in 1959)are examples of Category One hurricanes that directly impacted Hawaii.
Category 2 Hurricane:
Sustained winds 96-110 mph (83-95 kt or 154-177 km/h). Very strong winds will produce widespread
damage. Damage to windows and roofs.Considerable damage to poorly constructed buildings. Extensive
damage to utility poles and lines. There is no record of a Category Two hurricane directly impacting Hawaii.
Category 3 Hurricane:
Sustained winds 111-130 mph (96-113 kt or 178-209 km/h). Dangerous winds will cause extensive damage.
Some structural damage to well constructed homes and buildings. Poorly constructed structured destroyed.
Large trees snapped or uprooted. Near total power loss. Considerable damage to above ground utilities.
There is no record of a Category Three hurricane directly impacting Hawaii.
Category 4 Hurricane:
Sustained winds 131-155 mph (114-135 kt or 210-249 km/h). Extremely dangerous will cause devastating
damage. Some wall failures and complete roof structure failures on houses will occur. Complete destruction
of poorly constructed buildings. Most trees uprooted or snapped. Widespread damage to above ground
utilities and complete power loss. Hurricane Iniki,which made landfall on Kauai in 1992,is an example of a
Category Four hurricane at landfall in Hawaii.
Category 5 Hurricane:
Sustained winds greater than 155 mph (135 kt or 249 km/hr). Catastrophic damage. Complete roof failure
on many residences and industrial buildings. Some complete damage to well built homes. Nearly all trees
snapped or uprooted. Most wooden utility poles blown down. Power outages will last for weeks and
possible months. There is no record of a Category Five hurricane directly impacting Hawaii.
4
How Hurricanes Form
Breeding Grounds
Hurricanes are products of a tropical ocean and t
a warm,moist atmosphere. Powered by heat l j. t T r
from the sea,they are typically steered by the .
surrounding deep layer(from the ocean's surface
to 8 miles up)easterly winds,generally south
r _
of 25°north latitude and by high-level westerly
winds north of 25°north latitude.
At
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The Central Pacific hurricane season starts on r
June 1 and continues through November 30,
however tropical cyclones have been observed
in the Central Pacific in every month except May.
The peak of the season is July through October Jim August is the most active month,followed y'
by July,September,and October.Over other t �
parts of the world such as the western North
Pacific,typhoons can occur year-round.
NOAA
Storm Structure
Tropical cyclones begin as a disturbance,or an area of persistent and organized thunderstorm activity. The process by
which a disturbance forms and strengthens into a hurricane depends on at least three conditions.First,a disturbance
gathers heat and energy through contact with warm ocean waters.Next,added moisture evaporated from the sea
surface powers the seedling tropical storm like a giant heat engine.Third,the seedling storm forms a wind pattern
near the ocean surface that spirals
HURRICANEair inward.Bands of thunderstorms
AANDREW p NDREYY��r form,allowing the air to warm further
and rise higher into the atmosphere.
NWS NUANH RADAR If the winds at these higher levels
y�
Eye and ocean Aug�ust24,15T? are relatively light,this structure can
•- w Y 0835 UlY W35 EDT remain intact and further strengthen
Surface dBZ the hurricane.
>48
48 14urrlearre
EyeWal I # 4z Rwieareh The center,or eye,of a hurricane is
Division
40 relatively calm with sinking air,light
Eyewall ;7 winds and few clouds.The most
violent winds and rain take place in
19 the eyewall,the ring of thunderstorms
26 ...d immediately surrounding the eye.At
r 23 the top of the eyewall(about 50,000
18 N N � ,FL . feet),most of the air is propelled
•� - ]�iNini,FL p p
# {dig outward,increasing the air's upward
fk,rr,.iin: I SHI x ]{�7km motion.Some of the air,however,
�
moves inward and sinks into the eye,
Hurricane Andrew/NOAACategary S,Augusil4,1992 creating a cloud-free area.
5
Hurricane Impacts
Total Storm Inundation
Total storm inundation is the combined impact of high tides,storm surge,and large breaking waves caused directly by
a tropical cyclone. In Hawaii,high tides generally fall between 2 and 3 feet above mean sea level. Storm surge can be
thought of as the surface of the sea being elevated due to the force of the hurricane's winds,in addition to a slight rise
in sea level under the storm due to its lower pressure. Advanced computer modeling from the University of Hawaii
Ocean and Resources Engineering Department suggests a category four hurricane making landfall in Hawaii will
produce a 3 to 5 foot storm surge in some locations. These values are consistent with the storm surge of 4 to 5 feet
observed when Hurricane Iniki made landfall on Kauai. If the storm surge arrives at high tide,the total water height
will be even greater. While Hawaii coastlines are impacted by high surf throughout the year,large breaking waves will
encroach considerably further inland during a hurricane as the waves are on top of an already elevated water level.
As an example,as a hurricane moves ashore,a 5 foot storm surge added to a 2 foot high tide produces a water level 7
feet above mean sea level. This mass of water,topped by large breaking waves,may produce a total storm inundation
as high as around 25 feet above mean sea level. This means areas along affected coastlines which are below 25 feet
in elevation could experience damaging impacts from waves and saltwater intrusion. The large waves will also carry
floating debris,increasing the damage potential.
i
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Hurricane Iniki Inundation on Kauai-
6
Tornadoes
Hurricanes and tropical l
storms can also produce
tornadoes. These tornadoes
most often occur in r
thunderstorms embedded
in rain bands well away
from the center of the
hurricane;however,they �-
can also occur near the '
eyewall. Usually,tornadoes _
produced by tropical
cyclones are relatively weak ,
and short-lived,but still
Y
pose a threat. ,
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Tornado Damage in Honomalmo J �,
February 28,2004
Winds
Hurricane-force winds,74 mph or more,can destroy buildings and mobile homes.Debris,such as signs,roofing
material,siding,and small items left outside,become flying missiles in hurricanes.Winds will also increase in speed
as they interact with
n - the complex terrain in
Hawaii. A wind mapping
�! study of wind gusts on
Oahu conducted by the
Pacific Disaster Center
concludes some areas
may experience a speed-
up effect up to 160
percent(maximum wind
gusts). Neighborhoods
situated on exposed
' 1
f t y k mountain ridges or
> _ elevated slopes are
~r N
� �k ,.. . especially vulnerable to
significant wind speed
enhancements during a
tropical cyclone.
Hurricane lnikidamage
7
Heavy Rains and Flash Flooding
All tropical cyclones can produce widespread torrential rains often in excess of 6 inches.This rain can produce deadly
and destructive floods.Heavy rain can trigger landslides and debris flows,especially in mountainous regions.Flash
flooding,a rapid rise in water levels,can occur quickly due to intense rainfall.
Intense rainfall is not directly related to the strength or winds of tropical cyclones but rather to the speed of
movement and geography of the area affected.Slower moving storms produce more rainfall.Mountainous terrain also
enhances rainfall from a tropical cyclone.Even the remnants of a tropical cyclone can produce heavy rains and flash
flooding.
IL
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Hurricane Iniki flooding
• Hurricane Iniki(September 1992) produced 8 to 10+inches in 24 hours.
• The remnants of Tropical Storm Paul(November 2000)dumped an incredible 37+inches of rain in a 24-hour
period,including 22+inches in 6 hours.
• Tropical Depression 1 C(August 1994) brought 14+inches of rain to windward sections of the Big Island.
• In the Western Pacific,Typhoon Chata'an spread 10 to 15+inches of rain across Guam.
8
U .S. Hurricane Problem
Population Growth
The United States has a significant hurricane
problem as the coastal population continues
to rapidly increase. In Hawaii,shelter space
cannot keep up with the increasing resident
population and on any given day,there are
over 100,000 visitors scattered throughout the
State. Major communities,hotels and resorts,
power plants,refineries,and other critical
infrastructure lie within coastal evacuation t
zones. Coastlines continue to fill with new i
developments. These homes are waiting for #
the next storm to threaten its residents'dreams.
The most significant danger to coastal citizens �r
is from a hurricane's storm inundation.
Perception of Risk I
Over the past several years,the hurricane
_ a
warning system has provided adequate time
to notify people when hurricanes threaten. ' — • _ . .'
However,it is becoming more difficult to IAA s %-h.
evacuate people from coastal areas because - R
road improvements have not kept pace with
the rapid population growth.The problem is
further compounded because 80 to 90 percent
of the population now living in hurricane-
prone areas have never experienced the core of
a"major"hurricane. Many of these people have Waikiki Beach,December1969/NDAA
been through weaker storms or only outer
rain bands of intense hurricanes.The result is a
false impression of a major hurricane's damage
potential.This can lead to complacency and
delayed actions resulting in injuries and loss of
lives.
9
Frequency of Hurricanes
Continental United States
During the'70s,'80s and'90s,major hurricanes striking the United States were less frequent than the previous three
decades.With the tremendous increase in population along the high-risk areas of our shorelines,the United States
may not fare as well in the future.Some hurricane experts think the frequency of major hurricanes making landfall in
the United States will increase over the next few decades.
Central North Pacific
In the central North Pacific basin,tropical cyclone frequency has varied from a low of zero tropical cyclones in 1960,
1964,1977,and 1979 to a high of 11 in 1992 and 1994. While there are changes in tropical cyclone frequency over a
period of decades,there is no clear,long-term trend. Increase tropical cyclone activity in the basin appears tied to the
El Nino phenomenon,which is marked by an increase in sea surface temperatures along the equatorial regions of the
central and eastern Pacific Ocean. Since 1971,4 of the 5 most active central Pacific hurricane seasons are associated
with El Nino years.
In the final analysis,the only real defense against hurricanes is the informed readiness of your community,your family
and YOU.
Central Pacific Tropical Cyclones 1971-2009
12
11 1'1
10
10 —
9
8
8
7 7 7 7
E
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6 6
0 5
5 5 5 5 5
z
4 4 4 4
3 — — — —
3 3 3 3 3 3
2 2 2 2
1 1
� 0 a
10
Risk to U.S. Pacific Islands
Hawaii,the U.S territories of Guam and American Samoa,and the U.S.Affiliated Pacific Islands are subject to tropical
cyclones. Hurricane Iniki struck Kauai,Hawaii,on September 11, 1992,resulting in $2.5 billion in damage. During the
same year,Guam was battered by five typhoons. On December 16, 1997,Guam was hit by Super Typhoon Paka,which
produced over$520 million in damage. In 2009,Hurricane Neki passed just to the east of French Frigate Shoals in the
Papahanaumokuakea National Marine Monument(commonly referred to as the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands)and
necessitated the evacuation of remote research camps. Pacific Islands are especially vulnerable to hurricane strikes as
mass evacuation options off each island are not feasible or practical. Residents and visitors will need to find shelter on
island. In the wake of a hurricane landfall,damage to harbors and airports will also prevent outside aid from reaching
the islands in the short term. If a hurricane threatens Hawaii,please follow all instructions from Civil Defense and
Emergency Management officials.
Trackin g the Storm
Satellite
Several different types of weather satellites hover above or orbit the
earth and provide images and other important data related to tropical
cyclones. Satellite imagery is a valuable tool and assists in providing X
estimates of location,size,and intensity of a tropical cylone and its =ri
surrounding environment. For Pacific Islands,satellite is a critical tool
used to observe all types of weather phenomena over the open ocean,
where conventional land-based weather observations are unavailable.
Prior to 1960,when the very first weather satellite was launched,
many tropical cyclones and other storms across the vast pacific went
unnoticed,unless a ship happened to be in the area. Modern satellites
have the ability to"see"through cloud cover to measure surface winds 6eostationary Operational EnvironmenalSotellite/NOAA
over the ocean,wave heights,and sea surface temperature. All of this
data are important resources used to make more accurate forecasts.
Reconnaissance Aircraft
"Hurricane Hunter"aircraft operated by the U.S.Air Force Reserve and
NOAA provide critical information for the Central Pacific Hurricane
Center and National Hurricane Center. Pilots fly the planes into the
core of a hurricane to measure wind,pressure,temperature and
humidity as well as to provide an accurate location of the center of
the hurricane. NOAA also operates a high-altitude aircraft which
= takes observations of the environment surrounding a hurricane. This
information assists in track and intensity forecasts.
WC-130H,Hurricane Hunters/U.S.Airforce Reserve
11
Radar
When a hurricane gets close to the coast,it is monitored by land-
based weather radars.The NWS Doppler weather radars,equipped
with the latest advanced technology,add new dimensions to
hurricane warning capabilities.It provides detailed information on
hurricane wind fields and its changes.Local NWS offices are able to _
provide accurate short-term warnings for floods,inland high winds
and any other weather hazards associated with a tropical cyclone.
There are four Doppler weather radars located in Hawaii. j
WSR-88D Radar/NOAA
Hurricane Forecast Models
The NWS National Hurricane Center and Central Pacific Hurricane Center use a multitude of numerical computer
and statistical models to aid in forecasting the path,speed and strength of hurricanes.Data from weather satellites,
reconnaissance aircraft and other sources are fed into these computer models.Other computer models provide
guidance on storm surge height and the extent of flooding it may cause.
R
Hurricane Flossie-potential tracks
12
I.1.J
Terms to Know
_by trltemafidnal agreement,sropicat rydr ne Is.trte Flash Flood watch means a flash flood is possible In the Srt}It craft rauflon$ry statement-where a trapJCaJ_
general term far all cyclonic dFCUiatlan originating aver area;stay alert. cyclone threatens a coastal area,small era irons
tropical waters,classified ty form and rntensity as Flash Flood Warning means a flash flood Is Imminent are advised to rernaln in port or not to ve the
fpllows� open sea.
Tropi"I distorhartDe: A rea of thunderstorms occurring;take Immediate action. P
g Tornadoes.spawned by hurricanes sorttetimes produce Gale Warnings are issued when.Inds Iles
_In the tropics that.mairitalns_lts.identity for 24 hours or severe damage and causailties_ if a tornado is reported and hour(34-47 knots)are expected. -
more_ A cnmmon phenomenon in the tropics, In your area a warning will tie issued. Storm warnings are Issued when winds of 55-73 miles
Tropical depression; POta7y CIrCUWCIbn;'SUStafnlf0 wind and hour{48-63 knots}are expected.
_.speed 38 miles per._Our_C4 3.knoll}or less_ A Hurricane watch is Issued when there Is a threat of
Tropical storm: Distinct mtary dreula-tion,sustained hurricane conditions within 36 hours.Preliminary
wind speed range of 39.73 miles per hour(39-63
knots}. Frecau[ions sfmuld be taken,
Hurricane: Pronounced rotor,clrcrlatron,sustainad A Hurrkane Warning Is Issued when sustained winds
y of 74 mph or more are expected in a specified area in 24
wind speed of 74 miles per hour(64 knots)or more, hours or less. A hurricane warning can remain In effect
Iifrtfl.,:y.y A when dangerously high water or high waves continue,.
even though winds may be less than 74 mph.
- -� Actions for'protectlon of lives and property should begin:
h'xFt3r Il . Immediately when the warning Is Issued.
J4irhau'O []'anti Moh=AaI
,Ori 9rmrll; AAA" I4
HAWAII—
i HaWaO
� - - - -- - - - --
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Don't Focus on the Skinny
Black Line '.
Weather forecasting has never been and will likely never of the storm.This is the first product that explicitly gives
be an exact science.Thus,the ability to forecast the information about the possible wind impact at individual
exact track of a hurricane will always present a challenge locations.
for hurricane forecasters and more importantly those
who use hurricane track forecasts as guidance to make The main point to consider is the eventual track of Katrina
decisions on evacuations. The two graphics presented on was well to the west of the"skinny black line"and the
the next page are examples of two highly used forecast catastrophic damage that was inflicted during landfall
products issued by the Central Pacific Hurricane Center fell well within the cone of uncertainty several days after
in Honolulu HI. These are the actual forecast products these forecast products. Based on this,
for track and wind swath produced for what was at the the best advice to residents facing a potential land falling
time Hurricane Flossie. First off,while it is apparent in hurricane is;a hurricane is not a point on a map,the
Figure 1 that the center of Flossie was denoted as a point, dangerous effects of a hurricane reach well away from the
the reality is that a tropical storm or hurricane in NOT a center so"Don't Focus On The Skinny Black Line!!"
point on a map and that storm inundation damage,wind
damage and in fact loss of life can occur many miles from
the center of the storm.
In Figure 1,the white and hatched regions briefly
explained are the cone of uncertainty which show
the average track errors during the last ten years
superimposed on the"skinny black line"which represents
the actual forecast track for the center of the storm.
Because of improvements in forecasts,the forecast track
today remains within the cone for the entire five days
about two-thirds of the time.This means that if your area
lies within the cone,it is wise to assume that you could
easily take a direct hit,and even if your area does not take
a direct hit,you could still be in serious danger.
Figure 2,is a new product that provide the actual chance
for every location of experiencing at least tropical
storm (39 mph or greater)sustained winds over the
following five days. This new tool is an improvement
over what has been made available in that it takes into
account uncertainty in track,peak winds,and the size
14
i i i i
Approx. Distance Scale ( Statute Hiles )
FIGURE Hurricane Flossie
SM 125 250 375 500
True at 30.0)N August 13,2007
5 AM HST Monday
NWS CPHC/Central Pacific Hurricane Center
30H — Advisory 2.0
Current Center Location 14.9 N 149.5 W
Kure Atoll Matt Sustained Wind 140 mph
!nlavay Current Movement WNW at 15 mph
Pear an ® Current Center Location
Hermes A oil
• Forecast Center Positions
fsianski H Sustained wind>73 mph
25N Mara ei Q Potential Day 4-5 Track Area
a
2 Alt +.ItbI e
2A
2' 2ul
Wed
20N
Jahn ten Atoll
15N U —_
5 AM Mon
18 �`� 17 W 17 N 16 14 16 N 15 W 15 W 14514 Wind Speed Probabilities 1 1 I
Winds at FIGUREI Least t r
2 5N
v -
c-
20N-
1 SN
101.1
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1 Valid for 08 Hours From e a
' PM Wed 08 Jun to 8 AM Sun 12 Jun a Rr
1661 15 511 15& 14 5W 144w4'• . • 4
f 40 6 f 8 1 ' 1
15
Stay Informed '.
NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards
NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards(NWR)is the prime
National Weather Service(NWS)delivery system of All Hazard s
alerts and critical information directly to the general
public. NWR broadcasts warnings,watches,forecasts
and other hazard information 24 hours a day.Known
as the"voice of the NWS",the NWR network includes
1000 transmitters covering all 50 states,adjacent
coastal waters,Puerto Rico,the U.S.Virgin Islands
and the U.S.Pacific Territories.
The National Weather Service in Honolulu,HI, Weather Radio
operates NWR transmitters and repeaters on Kauai,
Oahu,Maui,and the Big Island. The complex
terrain of the islands makes reception of the NWR NOAA National Weather Service
signal difficult in some areas. Forthe locations TM
and frequencies used in Hawaii,please visit the
NWS Honolulu website at:
www.weather.gov/hawaii and click on NOAA
Weather Radio link.
Most weather radio receivers are equipped with a Emergency Managers
special alarm tone feature that will sound day or night
when a warning or watch is issued for your area,giving Weather Information
you immediate information about potentially life-
threatening situations.Newer weather radios use Special Network
Alert Message Encoding(SAME),which allows you to
specify the particular area(normally a county or group The Emergency Managers Weather Information Network
of counties)for which you wish to receive alerts.Some (EMWIN)offers an economical way to receive all products
weather radio receivers allow people with hearing and available on NWWS,plus graphical forecasts and select
visually impaired to connect devices such as strobe satellite data.For details,go to:
lights,pagers,bed-shakers,personal computers and http://iwin.nws.noaa.gov/emwin/index.htm.
text printers.
NWS encourages people to buy a weather radio receiver
which carries the"Public Alert"logo. The"Public Alert" Interactive Weather
standard for weather radios was developed by the
Consumer Electronics Association in conjunction with Information Network
NWS. "Public Alert"certified receivers,produced by
several manufacturers,meet several minimum criteria, The Interactive Weather Information Network(IWIN)is a
are equipped with SAME and battery backup(useful for Web site with live data similar to EMWIN. It is open to all
when the power goes out),and have connections for users and contains warnings in addition to many routine
external antennas and the special devices for the hearing NWS products.To view IWIN products,go to:
and visually impaired. http://iwm.nws.noaa.gov.
More information on NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards
and"Public Alert"receivers can be found by contacting
your local NWS office or on the Internet at:
http://www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr.
16
Internet Resources
More hurricane information and news is just a click away.
National Weather Service: www.nws.noaa.gov
National Hurricane Center: www.nhc.noaa.gov
Central Pacific Hurricane Center: www.prh.noaa.gov/cphc
Links to local NWS Offices
National Weather Service: www.weather.gov/organization.php
Historical Information
National Climatic Data Center: www.ncdc.noaa.gov
NOAA Coastal Services Center: hurricane.csc.noaa.gov/hurricanes
Other Emergency Information Sites
American Red Cross: www.redcross.org
FEMA: www.fema.gov
Disaster Preparedness: www.ready.gov
U.S.Geological Survey: www.usgs.gov/hurricanes
EIAINFORMATION
NEED-24 HOV RS A
ET A NOAA
NER RADIO!
North A--Syndcate,
Inc.World rights reserved.
E(goD
1�7
/
What To Listen For
• HURRICANE/TROPICAL STORM WATCH: Hurricane/tropical storm conditions are possible in the specified
area of the Watch,usually within 48 hours.During a Watch,prepare your home and review your plan for
evacuation in case a Hurricane/Tropical Storm Warning is issued.
• HURRICANE/TROPICAL STORM WARNING: Hurricane/tropical storm conditions are expected in
the specified area of the Warning,usually within 36 hours.Complete storm preparations and leave the
threatened area if directed by local officials.
• SHORT TERM WATCHES AND WARNINGS: These warnings provide detailed information on specific
hurricane threats,such as floods and tornadoes.
• FLASH FLOOD WATCH: This product informs the public and cooperating agencies of possible flooding.If
you are in a Watch area,check flood action plans,keep informed and be ready to act if a warning is issued or
you see flooding.
• FLASH FLOOD WARNING: A flood/flash flood Warning is issued for specific communities,streams or
areas where flooding is imminent or in progress. Persons in the warning area should take precautions
IMMEDIATELY!
National Hurricane Center and Central Pacific
Hurricane Center Products
PUBLIC ADVISORIES offer critical hurricane watch,warning and forecast information.
FORECASTS/ADVISORIES provide detailed hurricane track and wind field information.
PROBABILITIES OF HURRICANE/TROPICAL STORM CONDITIONS offer locally specific chances of experiencing
tropical storm,strong tropical storm,and hurricane force winds out to five days to better know if one will be impacted
and when these conditions may occur.
Local NWS Office Products
HURRICANE LOCAL STATEMENTS give greater detail on how the storm will impact your area.
All of the above information must be used to make an informed decision on your risk and what actions should
be taken. Remember to listen to your local official's recommendations and to NOAA Weather Radio for the latest
hurricane information.
18
Are You Ready7
Before the Hurricane Season
• Determine safe evacuation routes.
• Learn location of official shelters.
• Make emergency plans for pets.
_h
• Check emergency equipment,such as flashlights, `\
generators and battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio All f
Hazards and cell phones.
• Buy food that will keep and store drinking water.
• Buy plywood or other material to protect your home.
• Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
• Trim trees and shrubbery. ,.
• Determine where to move your boat in an emergency.
• Review your insurance policy.
FEMA
During the Storm
Terms to Know
When in a Watch Area...
• Hurricane/Tropical Storm • Frequently listen to radio,TV or NOAA Weather Radio for official
Watch: Hurricane/Tro pica I bulletins of the storm's progress.
Storm conditions are possible in Fuel and service family vehicles.
the specified area of the watch, Have extra cash on hand.
usually within 48 hours. Prepare to cover all windows and doors with shutters or other
shielding materials.
• Hurricane/Tropical Storm • Check batteries and stock up on canned food,first-aid supplies,
Warning: Hurricane/Tropical drinking water and medications. Ensure you have at least seven days
Storm conditions are expected worth of supplies for each household member.
in the specified area of the • Bring in light-weight objects such as garbage cans,garden tools,
warning,usually within 36 toys and lawn furniture.
hours.
Plan to leave if you...
• Live in a poorly constructed structure. Many single wall homes
Although Tropical Storms in Hawaii that have not been properly retrofitted will not survive a
have lower wind speeds than hurricane.
hurricanes,they often bring
life-threatening flooding Live in a coastal evacuation zone,near a stream,near a river,or in
and dangerous winds.Take other flood prone areas.
precautions! • Live in a high-rise building.Hurricane winds are stronger at higher
elevations.
19
When in a Warning Area...
• Closely monitor radio,TV or NOAA Weather Radio All What to Bring to a Shelter
Hazards for official bulletins.
. Close storm shutters First aid kit
• Follow instructions issued by local officials.Leave Medicine,prescriptions
immediately if ordered! Baby food and diapers
• If evacuating,leave as soon as possible.Stay with Games,books,music players with headphones
friends or relatives,or at a designated public shelter • Toiletries
outside the flood zone. Battery powered radio and cell phone
. DO NOT stay in a poorly constructed home that has not Flashlights
been properly retrofitted.
• Extra batteries
• Notify neighbors and a family member outside of the A blanket or sleeping bag for each person
warned area of your evacuation plans.
• Identification
. Take pets with you if possible,but remember,most
public shelters do not allow pets other than those used Copies of key papers such as insurance policies
by the handicapped.Please contact local emergency Cash,credit card
management officials for the locations of pet-friendly
shelters. REMINDER: If you are told to leave,
do so immediately!
If Staying in a Home...
• Turn refrigerator to maximum cold and keep closed.
• Turn off utilities if told to do so by authorities. If Winds Become Strong...
•
Turnoff propane tanks. • Stay away from windows and doors,even if they are
• Unplug small appliances. covered.Take refuge in a small interior room,closet or
• Fill bathtub and large containers with water in case tap hallway.
water is unavailable.Use water in bathtubs for cleaning • Close all interior doors.Secure and brace external
and flushing only.Do NOT drink it. doors.
• If you are in a two story house,go to an interior 1 st
floor room.
If you are in a multi-story building and away from
water,go to the 1 st or 2nd floor and stay in the halls or
other interior rooms away from windows.
e
Lie on the floor under a table or other sturdy object.
Be Alert For..
.
-� • Tornadoes.They are often spawned by hurricanes.
... • The calm"eye"of the storm.It may seem like the storm
z -
`' is over but after the eye passes,the winds will change
A direction and quickly return to hurricane force.
FEMA Storm inundation flooding. These high waves can be
more deadly than hurricane winds. Leave the coast and
stay away from low lying areas,creeks,streams and other
inland waterways.
20
After the Storm...
NWS hurricane links,forecasts,assessments:
• Keep listening to radio,TV or NOAA Weather Radio. www.weather.gov/os/hurricane
• Wait until an area is declared safe before entering.
• Watch for closed roads. If you come upon a barricade or NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards:
a flooded road,Turn Around Don't Drown! www.weather.gov/nwr
• Avoid weakened bridges and washed out roads. National Hurricane Center:
- Stay on firm ground.Moving water only 6 inches deep www.nhc.noaa.gov
can sweep you off your feet.Standing water may be
electrically charged from power lines. Central Pacific Hurricane Center:
• Once home,check gas,water and electrical lines and www.weather.gov/cphc
appliances for damage.
American Red Cross:
• Use a flashlight to inspect for damage. Never use www.redcross.org
candles and other open flames indoors.
- Do not drink or prepare food with tap water until Federal Emergency Management Agency:
officials say it is safe. www.fema.gov
• If using a generator,avoid carbon monoxide poisoning www.ready.gov
by following manufacturer's instructions.
- Avoid electrocution by not walking in flooded areas
with downed power lines.
Is Your Community
StormReady?
Community To help Americans prepare for the ravages of hazardous
Preparedness Plans weather,the National Weather Service has designed
StormReady,a program aimed at arming America's
Each community subject to a hurricane threat communities with the communication and safety skills
should develop its own hurricane safety plan. necessary to save lives and property.More information is
After you have developed a personal/family safety available at www.nws.noaa.gov/stormready.
plan,find out about your community safety plan.
Local officials should have detailed information All four counties in Hawaii are StormReady. The
for your immediate area.Please listen to and StormReady certifications means emergency officials are
follow their recommendations before,during and well prepared for hazardous weather events in Hawaii.
after the storm.
gfIlk
ormRead
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE Lvo�
21
Famil y Disaster Plan
Prepare for hazards that could affect your area with a family disaster plan.Where will your family be when
disaster strikes?They could be at work,school or in the car.How will you find each other?Will you know if your
children are safe?Disaster may force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home.What
would you do if basic services—water,gas,electricity or telephones—were cut off?
Steps to Take
Gather information about hazards.
Contact your local National Weather Service office,emergency management office,and American Red Cross
chapter.Find out what type of disasters could occur and how you should respond.Learn your community's
warning signals and evacuation plans.Assess your risks and identify ways to make your home and property
more secure.
Meet with your family to create a disaster plan.
Discuss your plan with your family. Pick two places to meet:a spot outside your home for an emergency,such
as fire,and a place away from your neighborhood in case you can't return home.Choose an out-of-state
friend as your"family check-in contact"for everyone to call if the family gets separated.Discuss what you
would do if advised to evacuate.
Implement your plan.
1. Post emergency telephone numbers by the phone.
2. Install safety features in your house,such as smoke alarm and fire extinguishers.
3. Inspect your home for potential hazards(items that can move,fall,break or catch fire)and correct them.
4. Have your family learn basic safety measures,such as CPR and first aid;how to use a fire extinguisher;and
how and when to turn off water,gas and electricity in your home.
5. Teach children how and when to call 911 or your local Emergency number.
6. Keep enough supplies in your home for at least 7 days.Assemble a disaster supplies kit.Store these supplies
in sturdy,easy-to-carry containers,such as backpacks or duffle bags. Keep important documents.
A Disaster Supplies Kit Should Include:
• A 7-day supply of water(one medicines Emergency tools
gallon per person,per day) • One blanket or sleeping bag Flashlight,extra batteries
• Non-perishable food per person Extra set of car keys and a
• One change of clothing and First-aid kit credit card or cash
shoes per person Battery-powered NWR and a Special items for infant,elderly
• Prescription&non-prescription portable radio or disabled family members
Practice and maintain your plan.
Ensure your family knows meeting places,phone numbers and safety rules.Conduct drills.Test your smoke
alarms monthly and change the batteries at least once each year.Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s)
according to manufacturer's instructions.Replace stored water and food every 6 months.Contact your local
National Weather Service office,American Red Cross chapter or emergency management office for a copy of
"Preparing for Disaster"(Red Cross A4600/FEMA475).
22
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NOTES