Hurricane Preparedness Week Continues: High Winds

The intensity of a land falling hurricane is expressed in terms of categories that relate wind speeds and potential damage.

According to the Saffir Simpson Hurricane Scale, a Category 1 hurricane has lighter winds compared to storms in higher categories.

For example, a Category 4 hurricane would have winds between 131 and 155mph, and on average would usually be expected to cause 100 times the damage of a Category 1 storm. But depending upon the exact circumstances, less intense storms may still be strong enough to produce damage, particularly in areas that have not prepared in advance.

Hurricane force winds can easily destroy poorly constructed buildings and mobile homes. Debris such as signs, roofing material and small objects left outside become flying missiles in hurricanes. Extensive damage to trees, towers and fallen poles cause considerable disruption. Even water and underground utility lines can become disrupted as a result of uprooted trees.

High rise buildings are also vulnerable to hurricane force winds, mainly since wind speeds tend to increase with height close to the ground. Recent research suggest you should stay below the tenth floor but still above any floors that are at risk for flooding.

The strongest winds usually occur in the right side of the hurricane eye wall. Although wind speed often decreases within 12 hours after landfall, winds can still stay above hurricane strength well inland. Hurricane Hugo for example battered Charlotte in North Carolina, which is 175 miles away from the coast with gusts near 100mph.

High Wind Safety Actions:
Before hurricane season, which officially begins on June 1st, find out if your home meets current building code requirements for high winds. Better built structures have a greater chance of surviving violent wind storms.

Consider installing hurricane shutters or purchasing thick plywood for your home windows.

Assess your property to ensure that landscaping and trees do not become a wind hazard.

If a hurricane threatens your area and you live in a mobile or manufactured home, consider relocating to a safer structure since most of these types of homes are not built to withstand hurricane force winds.

Secure or bring inside all outdoor objects that may become projectiles.

Reinforce garage doors.

If you decide to stay in your house during the storm, go to a designated safe room. Do not leave this room until directed to be local officials, even if winds have calmed, since you may be in the eye of the hurricane where little wind occurs.