The Cheat Sheet You Need For Hurricane Season
Welcome to our essential guide on navigating hurricane season in South Florida, particularly tailored for our neighbors in Palm Beach County and Jupiter residents.
With the Atlantic hurricane season extending from June 1 to November 30, it’s vital to arm ourselves with knowledge and preparedness. Below, we’ll walk you through the varying hurricane categories, ensuring you understand the potential impact of different storm intensities. We’ll also cover what steps to take before, during, and after a hurricane as well as quick links to the most pertinent information for northern Palm Beach County residents to help you stay safe and informed during the storm season.
Consider this your hurricane season cheat sheet.
warnings and watches
Tropical Storm Warning: 39-73 MPH winds: The period of time, 24 to 36 hours, prior to a possible threat of tropical storm conditions.
Hurricane Watch: 74+ MPH sustained winds: The period of time, 24 to 48 hours, prior to the predicted landfall of hurricane conditions.
Hurricane Warning: The period of time, 0 to 24 hours, prior to the predicted landfall of a hurricane.
Storm Categories
Cat 1: 74-95 MPH winds: Very dangerous winds will produce some damage: well-constructed frame homes could have damage to roof, vinyl siding and gutters. Large branches will snap and shallowly rooted trees may be toppled.
Cat 2: 96-110 MPH winds: Extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage: well-constructed frame homes could sustain major roof and siding damage. Many shallowly rooted trees will be snapped or uprooted and block numerous roads.
Cat 3: 111-129 MPH winds: Devastating damage will occur: well-built framed homes may incur major damage or removal of roof decking and gable ends. Many trees will be snapped or uprooted, blocking numerous roads.
Cat 4: 130-156 MPH winds: Catastrophic damage will occur: well-built framed homes can sustain severe damage with loss of most of the roof structure and/or some exterior walls. Most trees will be snapped and power poles downed. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas.
Cat 5: 157 (or higher) MPH winds: Catastrophic damage will occur: A high percentage of framed homes will be destroyed, with total roof failure and wall collapse. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas. Power outages will last for weeks to possibly months.
For lesser storms, many opt to stay put and ride it out. Below are some key points to consider if you do the same:
before the storm
Track the storm at the National Hurricane Center’s website.
Download the Red Cross Hurricane Safety Checklist.
Sign up for Palm Beach County Emergency Notifications.
Download the DART smartphone app for Apple and Andriod devices.
Gather adequate food, water, tools, supplies, and medical gear well in advance of a storm. Shelves run bare in the days leading up to potential landfall.
Prepare your home including installing hurricane shutters, cleaning up landscaping, and securing outdoor furniture.
Fill your vehicle gas tanks.
During the Storm
Use a portable radio to listen to important storm updates, information and instructions.
Stay inside and keep away from all windows, skylights and glass doors. Go to a safe area, such as an interior room, closet or interior bathroom.
Never go outside the protection of your home or shelter before there is confirmation that the storm has passed the area. The eye of the storm could create a temporary and deceptive lull, with high winds still approaching.
If power is lost, keep the refrigerator closed to keep cold air trapped and delay spoilage of perishable food.
If you use a portable generator, follow all the manufacturer’s instructions. Generators should be properly grounded to prevent electrical shock and should never be operated indoors, in garages, basements or outdoors near any windows, doors or vents. Because generators produce carbon monoxide (CO), make sure you have a working CO detector in your home.
After the storm
Continue listening to a NOAA Weather Radio or the local news for the latest updates.
Stay alert for extended rainfall and subsequent flooding even after the hurricane or tropical storm has ended.
If you evacuated, return home only when officials say it is safe.
Drive only if necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges.
Keep away from loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the power company.
Inspect your home for damage. Take pictures of damage, both of the building and its contents, for insurance purposes.
Please visit the Town of Jupiter’s storm webpage here for more information including local shelters and gas stations & grocery stores with backup generators. Ready.gov also has an abundance of information on preparing in advance of a storm.
