ABC's of Hurricane Watches/Warnings, Categories, & Tropical Storms/Depressions

By NBOA July 10, 2024

HURRICANES

A

Hurricane Watch: Warns you that a hurricane could hit your area within the next 24-36 hours. Hurricane Warning: Means a hurricane is expected to reach your area within 24 hours.  Note: If the hurricane takes an unexpected turn, these warnings may only come hours in advance.

CATEGORIES

B

Category I: Very dangerous wind speeds of 74-95 mph will cause some damage.  Storm surge of 4-5 ft. Category II: Extremely dangerous winds of 96-110 mph will cause extensive damage.  Storm surge of 6-8 ft.  Category III: Devastating wind speeds of 111-130 mph will cause serious damage.  Storm surge of 9-12 ft.

CATEGORIES Cont.

B

Category IV: Catastrophic damage from 131-155 mph winds will occur.  Storm surge of 13-18 ft. Category V: Catastrophic damage will occur from at least 156 mph winds.  Storm surge of at least 19 ft.

depressions & Storms

C

Tropical Depression: A storm that usually intensifies slowly with some rotary circulation at the surface and wind speeds up to 36 mph. Tropical Storm: A storm accompanied with intense rainfall and has a distinct rotary circulation at the surface and wind speeds up to 73 mph

DID YOU KNOW???

Once a storm has been "named" you are no longer able to purchase insurance for your boat in that area?