Hurricanes

Hurricanes are severe tropical storms that form over warm ocean waters that usually rotate in a counter-clockwise direction around an “eye”. The “eye” of a hurricane is typically the calm center of the violent rotating storm. Hurricanes gain their power over warm evaporating seawaters and bring very strong winds, waves (storm surge), rains, and even tornadoes to the mainland.

Hurricanes usually originate in the southern Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and the eastern Pacific Ocean. When a hurricane approaches land, it can destroy buildings, flood homes, roads, and lead to other hazardous situations. Hurricanes are categorized as follows:

Category 1- Winds 74-95 miles per hour
Category 2- Winds 96-110 miles per hour
Category 3- Winds 111-130 miles per hour
Category 4- Winds 131- 155 miles per hour
Category 5- Winds greater than 155 miles per hour

It is very important that you seek shelter from these storms, which can often mean evacuating your area. The Gulf Coast is Alabama’s region that is commonly hit by hurricane activity. Hurricane season starts June 1st and ends on November 30th. Remember! Your vulnerability can be reduced by preparing for a disaster.
If you would like to see pictures of past hurricanes in Alabama click here