The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June to November, with the peak season happening between mid-August to late October. On average there are six hurricanes, three which are categorized as “major,” each year.
Hurricane Categories
Category 1: 74 – 95 MPH Winds
Some Damage:
- Potential roof damage
- Large tree branches may snap, shallow-rooted trees may fall
- Damage to utility poles and power lines. Outages may last few to several days
Category 2: 96 – 110 MPH Winds
Extensive Damage:
- Potential major roof damage
- Shallow-rooted trees will be snapped or unrooted
- Power outages for several days to weeks
Category 3: 111 – 129 MPH Winds
Devastating Damage:
- Major home damage
- Many trees will be snapped or unrooted
- Electricity and water may be unavailable for several days to weeks
Category 4: 130 – 156 MPH Winds
Catastrophic Damage:
- Severe home damage
- Most trees will be snapped or uprooted and utility poles downed
- Power outages for weeks to possibly months
Category 5: > 156 MPH Winds
Catastrophic Damage:
- A high percentage of framed homes will be destroyed
- Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas
- Power outages for weeks to possibly months
Water
- Store one gallon of water per person per day.
- Keep at least a three-day supply of water per person (two quarts for drinking, two quarts for each person in your household for food preparation/sanitation).*
Safety Checklist
- Create a disaster prep kit for each member of your family to ensure their safety and comfort during a power outage. A basic kit should include bottled water, non-perishable food and battery-powered flashlights.
- Keep a first-aid kit ready and have 2 week supply of all prescription medications.
Convenience Checklist
- Stock up on batteries and other alternatives to meet your needs when the power goes out.
- Have flashlights with extra batteries for every household member.
- Keep mobile phones and other electric equipment charged and gas tanks full.
Have pets?
- Have your pets’ vaccinations records and be certain they’re wearing their collars with rabies tags and ID/phone number. Keep microchip registrations current.
- Keep extra food available for your pet.
- If you plan to evacuate, know where you can take your pets. Never leave them behind.