What is a Flood?

Hurricanes, Cyclones, and Typhoons all have the same characteristics, but they have different names where they appear:
· Hurricanes- North Atlantic Ocean
· Cyclones- Indian Ocean
· Typhoons- Pacific Ocean

Hurricanes, Typhoons, and Cyclones are one of nature's most powerful forces. They are all tropical storms whose winds reach around 74 miles per hour or even more. Their wind blows in a spiral direction around a relatively calm area known as “The Eye”. The eye is usually 20 to 30 miles wide. The most violent activity takes place in the area immediately around the eye, called “The Eyewall”. As the hurricane approaches, the sky begins to darken, and the wind gets stronger. As it nears lands, it may bring torrential rain, storm surges, and very high winds. One hurricane can last for more than 2 weeks in open waters. The heavy rain brought by a hurricane not only threatens coastal areas, but it also hits areas hundreds of miles inland. In some cases, flooding occurs days after a storm actually hits shore.

Months when it occurs include: August and September are the peak months during hurricane season. Hurricane season is between June 1st and November 30th.

The name Hurricane was applied to migratory tropical cyclones. They originate over oceans in certain regions near the equator, and particularly to those arising in the West Indian region, including the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. In the North Pacific and Philippines area are “typhoons” while in the Indian and South Pacific Ocean are “cyclones.”

Safety Tips:

Outdoor Safety Tips:

Leave low-lying areas.
Moor your boat securely or evacuate it.
Protect your windows with boards, shutters, or tape.
If at the Beach, watch for waves coming inland.

Secure outdoor objects or bring them indoors.
Fuel your car.
Save several days' water supply.
Stay at home if it is sturdy and on high ground.
Leave mobile homes for more substantial shelter.
Stay indoors during a hurricane.

Indoor Safety:

Listen for storm advisories and warnings on the radio
Check your supplies, camping equipment, and emergency cooking equipment.
If in a public building, get away from glass
If driving or riding in a car, get out, and seek cover under a freeway overpass, doorway or stairwell.
Avoid power lines, trees, buildings and windows.

After the Cyclone Safety Tips :

Avoid driving if possible. If driving is necessary, drive with caution.
Stay away from riverbanks and streams.
Beware of loose or dangling electrical wires.

What are Tsunamis?

Tsunamis are ocean waves produced by earthquakes or underwater landslides. As the waves approach the coast, their speed decreases and their height increases. Waves that are 10 to 20 feet high can be very destructive. Tsunamis don't happen very often, but when they do they cause many deaths and injuries. Always listen to the radio and television for the latest information and instructions for your area.

Safety Tips:  

PLAN FOR A TSUNAMI:

* Have a disaster plan.
* Know whether you're at risk for danger.
* Plan an evacuation route.
* Prepare a disaster supplies kit for your home and car. Include a first aid kit, canned food       and a can opener, bottled water, battery-operated radio, flashlight, protective clothing and written instructions on how to turn off electricity, gas, and water.

DURING A TSUNAMI:

* Follow the instructions issued by local authorities.
* You will probably want to evacuate immediately.
* Get to higher ground and as far inland as you can.

AFTER A TSUNAMI:

* Help injured or trapped people.
* Stay out of a building if water remains around it. Tsunami waters can cause buildings to         sink, floors to crack, or walls to collapse.
* When re-entering homes, use extreme caution.
* Check for gas leaks.
* Open windows and doors to help dry things out.
* Look for fire hazards.