What is a hurricane?

A hurricane is a huge storm! It can be up to 600 miles across and have strong winds spiraling inward and upward at speeds of 75 to 200 mph. Each hurricane usually lasts for over a week, moving 10-20 miles per hour over the open ocean. Hurricanes gather heat and energy through contact with warm ocean waters. Evaporation from the seawater increases their power. Hurricanes rotate in a counter-clockwise direction around an "eye." The center of the storm or "eye" is the calmest part. It has only light winds and fair weather. When they come onto land, the heavy rain, strong winds and large waves can damage buildings, trees and cars. Our island is in a hurricane area so it is best to always be prepared.

Emergency Kit.

To be prepared, it is best to have an emergency kit ready. An emergency kit is designed to give you all the basic things you need to survive and be safe, from a way to get clean water for yourself to first aid kits and other helpful tools.

BEFORE A HURRICANE: Have a disaster plan and a pet plan ready. Board up windows and bring in outdoor objects that could blow away. Make sure you know where all the evacuation routes are. Prepare a disaster supplies kit for your home with your family. 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. Have a weather radio handy with plenty of batteries, so you can listen to storm advisories.

DURING A HURRICANE: Always stay indoors during a hurricane, because strong winds will blow things around. Have board games, books and flashlights readyto keep you busy during the storm. The most important things to do are stay calm, listen for updates and help your parents.

AFTER A HURRICANE: Stay indoors until it is safe to come out. Stay away from standing water. It may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.