Hurricane Safety Tips

August 25, 2022 – The 2022 Hurricane Season has begun, and there is a reminder that a hurricane is a violent warm-core tropical storm with a minimum wind speed of 119 km or (74 mph) rotating in a counter-clockwise spiral around a region of low pressure called the center of the eye.

The weather pattern between June and December is significantly influenced by the Northward shift of the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone and cyclonic instability, which leads to the formation of easterly waves, storms, and hurricanes.

While hurricane winds move in a spiraling counter-clockwise direction, the hurricane itself moves with the basic motion of the trade winds in which it is embodied.

The official Hurricane Season starts on June 1, and continues till November 30 annually. The period is usually a rainy one even if a hurricane does not develop.

It is important for persons to check on these emergency items: water, boots, raincoats, flashlights and batteries, battery-powered radio, hurricane lamp, matches, hurricane shutters, hooks and latches.

Keep plastic bags, nails, hammer and other tools handy.  Have on hand simple first aid supplies.  Stock 4-5 days’ supply of food that does not need cooking or refrigeration. Make sure you have material for battening up doors and windows.

See that galvanized sheeting is on your roofs, out-buildings and fences are securely fastened.  If your house is in a high risk area, subject to a storm surge (tidal wave) or flooding, be sure you know of a safe shelter; preferably with relatives or friends.

Trim trees with branches near to buildings or electrical lines.  Also pick fruits off trees as these can be carried by the wind and cause further damage.  Be sure to understand the hurricane warning system.  That is the three phases – Alert, Watch and Warning.  These are indicators of how far away the hurricane is from your location.

Make sure you have a supply of kerosene and coal.  Keep coal dry by wrapping in a plastic bag or other waterproof material.  Latch down securely all small buildings in the yard such as outdoor kitchens, pit latrines, tool sheds, barns, etc.  Store extra food, especially things that can be eaten without cooking or which need very little preparation.

If you are away from home, remain where you are until the hurricane has passed.  Many people have lost their lives trying to go from one place to another.  Keep a hurricane lamp burning, as it may make the night more tolerable.