Preparing for a Hurricane...

The most important thing that should be done before, during, and after a hurricane is to prepare! Beforehand, people should create first-aid kits, as well as creating food and supply kits. Other things that can be done prior to a hurricane are as follows: cleaning debris from our yards, purchasing and installing storm shutters, cleaning out storm drains, among other things. During a hurricane, we can prepare ourselves for the aftermath by remaining calm and indoors, out of harms way. And, after a hurricane, we must stay calm and collected, and properly utilize the contents in our food and supply kits.

Additionally, if told to evacuate, please do!! Do not wait to leave until it is too late. Authorities would not ask you to leave your home if they did not believe that you were in pertinent danger.

Forecasting a Hurricane...

Forecasting a hurricane is the number one life and property saving aspect of this natural disaster. This simple measure allows individuals in the target area(s) to evacuate and secure properties. However, despite constant tracking and research, forecasting is not always accurate, as the hurricane path and intensity can quickly change due to wind and atmospheric conditions.

Satellite pictures and computer models, along with experience, are the best used tools when forecasting a hurricane. Lucky for us, the National Weather Service (NSW), along with it's Tropical Prediction Center (TPC) analyze and predict the magnitude of hurricanes and every event leading up to a hurricane.

It's National Hurricane Preparedness Week!

No matter where you live, you will always be exposed to natural disasters. However, you can prepare for these natural events, just as you would do for a wedding or sweet 16. Of all the natural disasters that occur, hurricanes are among the most destructive. Yet, with the ability to track the formation and nature of these storms, we can have the upper-hand of the situation; that is, if we practice hurricane awareness and preparation. That is why we are spotlighting "National Hurricane Preparedness Week," here at Chrissy Online.

When it comes to hurricanes, there are four main hazards: flooding, high winds, tornadoes, and storm surge. In order to avoid harm, people must take precautions when dealing with these hazards. According to the National Hurricane Center, "The first and most important thing anyone should do when facing a hurricane threat is to use common sense." I totally agree with the NHC (National Hurricane Center). One must use common sense in order to survive the hazards that accompany hurricanes.

Today's focus is on the history of hurricanes. Some notable hurricanes are Galveston (1920), Miami (1926), San Felipe-Okeechobee (1928), Andrew (1992), Ivan (2004), Katrina (2005), and Wilma (2005). If you'd like to read about these hurricanes and many other, click on the history link above to view storm paths and the history of these and other hurricanes. Keep coming back this week for more information in regards to hurricanes.