HURRICANE GUIDE - HURRICANE DANGERS

The Inland Danger:

Storm surge is usually considered the most dangerous part of a hurricane. Recently though, inland flooding has been the big killer. It has been responsible for more than half of all hurricane related deaths. One quarter of those deaths from 1970-1999 were people who drowned in their cars.

Two feet of water can float a car. Hurricanes can dump 5-10 inches of rain and in some cases more than 20 inches of rain can fall. Local residents were assaulted with more than 30 inches of rain from Hurricane Danny in 1997, 24 inches of rain drenched the area in 1998 during Hurricane Georges, and around 15 inches of rain drenched the area in 2004 from Hurricane Ivan. In these situations, storm drains can not handle all the water and may become clogged with debris. Rivers will rise out of their banks and many areas will flood quickly. Drinking water may also be contaminated by floods.

Should You Stay Or Go:

Have a good plan of action ready and stick to it. Don't let the storm's strength determine whether or when you evacuate. Storms can change strength and speed quickly. Leave early. Leaving too late puts you at risk of getting stuck in traffic as the storm moves inland.

If you live near the coast, in a low lying area, flood plain or in a manufactured home, you should evacuate. If you live on high ground, away from flooding danger, then cover your windows, and pick a small interior room to ride out the storm with your hurricane survival kit. Tornadoes often develop as a storm approaches. It's a good idea to pad your "safe Room" with mattresses.

If you have any questions you should call your local meteorologist or emergency management office.