HURRICANES

HOW DO HURRICANES FORM?

• Hurricanes begin to form when thunderstorms move over tropical ocean water
• Because thunderstorms develops in low pressure areas, warm ocean water is able to fuel the storm
• When the water evaporates, it is transferred from the ocean to the air
• The energy in the water warms the air, which causes tall clouds and strong winds
• The wind becomes stronger in a certain place, which makes the eye of a hurricane

WHAT EFFECTS DO HURRICANES HAVE?

• Hurricanes often bring huge waves, strong winds and heavy rain
• They often uproot trees, lift cars and tear roofs off of buildings
• Heavy rains often overflow rivers and flood the area
• When hurricanes move into a coastal area they bring a storm surge
• Storm surges are when the sea level rises a few feet

WHAT TO DO TO STAY SAFE DURING A HURRICANE

• Have a plan to where you would go if a hurricane were to hit
• Have a first aid kit and emergency supplies
• Secure loose and cover windows with storm shutters or boards
• Stay inside and away from windows during a storm
• Evacuate as soon as you are ordered to