Understanding Hurricanes

What Is a Hurricane?

A hurricane is a powerful tropical storm that forms over warm ocean water. It has organized thunderstorms and strong rotating winds.

Storm Categories

Tropical Depression: Winds under 39 mph
Tropical Storm: Winds 39–73 mph
Hurricane: Winds 74+ mph

Hurricanes usually form in the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and nearby Pacific waters.

Hurricane Season

June 1 – November 30
Peak activity occurs in mid-September.

Key Facts

“Hurricane” comes from the Taino word Huracan, meaning “evil spirit of the winds.”
Hurricanes form when warm, moist air rises over the ocean and begins to rotate.
About 10 tropical storms form each year in the Atlantic; around 6 become hurricanes.
Coastal areas are most at risk.
Hurricanes have three main parts: the eye, eyewall, and rain bands.
They weaken after moving over land because they lose access to warm ocean moisture.

Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale

The news about hurricanes always starts by telling you what category the storm falls into, and that category is decided by the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. A simple scale that divides the storms into five categories based on the strength their wind is packing. Hurricanes also carry rain, thunder and lightning, but this scale isn’t concerned with taking that into account. The fact that the scale isn’t all encompassing often leads to criticism, but it is still widely adopted and used to forecast hurricanes.

Make a Plan

Family Emergency Plan

Choose a safe meeting place and share contact information.
Know evacuation routes and nearby shelters, including pet-friendly options.
Keep important documents in a waterproof container or saved digitally.

Special Considerations

Seniors & People with Disabilities

Pack at least 7 days of medication and medical supplies.
Arrange transportation if needed.
Pre-register for special needs shelters if available.
Label personal items.

Children & Infants

Pack diapers, wipes, food/formula, medications, and comfort items.
Use ID bracelets or cards with parent contact information.
Keep explanations simple and calm.

Pets & Service Animals

Identify pet-friendly shelters or hotels.
Pack food, water, leash, crate, medications, ID tags, and vet records.
Never leave pets behind.

Get Supplies

Before the Storm: Be Ready

Pre-Storm Preparation for Residents

Prepare early to protect your family and property.

Protect Your Home

Bring in or secure outdoor items.
Board up windows with shutters or 5/8" plywood.
Check your roof, clear gutters, and trim trees.
Reinforce your garage door.
Review insurance and photograph your home and valuables.

Sandbags & Shutters

Free sandbags will be announced on the City website and social media.
Install shutters early and prepare plywood before hurricane season.
Seniors and residents with disabilities can contact [insert contact info] for assistance.

Evacuation & Shelters

Know your evacuation zone—check online or call 3-1-1.
Evacuate early, fill your gas tank, and keep a go-bag ready.
Pre-register for the Emergency & Evacuation Assistance Program if needed.
Shelter information will be shared through City alerts.
Some shelters accept pets; bring supplies and vaccination records.

During the Storm: Stay Safe

During the hurricane, your focus is protection and communication.

Stay Indoors: choose a small, windowless interior room (like a closet or bathroom) and stay away from windows and doors
Avoid Floodwater: never walk or drive through flooded areas—even a few inches can be dangerous
Conserve Power: use devices minimally; keep phones and radios charged and reserve battery life for alerts
Follow Authorities: continually monitor local emergency broadcasts or NOAA radio for updates or evacuation instructions

After the Storm: Stay Alert

Post-hurricane, hazards can still be present—take caution.

Wait for the All-Clear: do not venture outside until local authorities say it's safe
Check for Damage Safely: use battery-operated lights (not open flames), wear protection like gloves and boots, and be cautious entering buildings
Avoid Hazards: stay out of floodwaters and damaged structures; be cautious of downed wires
Document Damage: photograph damage and list items for insurance; contact your insurer promptly—avoid major repairs until after assessment
Clean-Up Guidance: dispose of contaminated food/water, follow sanitation protocols, and consult public officials for debris removal and restoration services.

Helpful Resources & Emergency Contact

Please see here a few of the most important links and resources before, during a hurricane and afterward:

National Hurricane Center - https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/

Florida Division of Emergency Management - https://www.floridadisaster.org/

FEMA - https://www.fema.gov/

FL Governor's Office - https://www.flgov.com/

FL Dept. of Health - https://www.floridahealth.gov/

FL Dept. of Transportation - https://www.fdot.gov/

US Dept. of Agriculture Resource - https://www.usda.gov/topics/disaster-resource-center

US Dept. of Energy - https://www.energy.gov/

FL National Guard - https://fl.ng.mil/

FEMA Disaster Assistance - https://www.disasterassistance.gov/

Miami Dade County Public Schools - https://www3.dadeschools.net/home

Shelters for those with illnesses or disabilities - Emergency & Evacuation Assistance Program (EEAP)

Pet Preparedness During a Hurricane - Pet Preparedness During a Hurricane