SOUTHERN T IDES MAGAZINE
2017 HURRICANE GUIDE
2017 Hurricane Names Arlene Bret Cindy Don Emily Franklin Gert
Harvey Irma Jose Katia Lee Maria Nate
Ophelia Philippe Rina Sean Tammy Vince Whitney
If more than 21 named storms occur in the season, the Greek Alphabet will be used.
Saffir-Simpson Scale Tropical Storm (not part of Saffir-Simpson)
Sustained winds of 39 – 73 mph Dangerous winds, will produce some damage.
Category 1
Sustained winds of 74 – 95 mph Very dangerous winds, will produce some damage.
Category 2
Sustained winds of 96 – 110 mph Extremely dangerous winds, will cause extensive damage.
Category 3 (major)
Sustained winds of 111 – 129 mph Devastating damage will occur.
The NOAA 2016 season forecast predicted 12 names storms, five hurricanes, and two major hurricanes. The season recap showed 15 named storms, seven hurricanes, and four major hurricanes. The first named storm of the 2017 season was Tropical Storm Arlene, that formed in the Atlantic and reached tropical storm strenght on April 20. This is only the second storm to form in April since satellites have been used to track weather. Due to a lack of El Nino conditions and warmer than average sea temperatures, an above-normal 2017 season is predicted.
Image provided by NOAA
Category 4 (major)
Sustained winds of 130 – 156 mph Catastrophic damage will occur.
Category 5 (major)
Sustained winds of 157 mph or higher Catastrophic damage will occur.
Watches and Warnings Tropical Storm Watch
Issued when winds of 39 - 73 mph or higher pose a possible threat, generally within 48 hours. May be include storm surge and flooding.
Tropical Storm Warning
Issued when winds of 39 to 73 mph or higher is expected in 36 hours or less. May include storm surge and flooding.
Hurricane Watch
Issued when winds of 74 mph or higher pose a possible threat, generally within 48 hours. May be include storm surge and flooding. Does not mean hurricane conditions will occur, only that these conditions are possible.
Hurricane Warning
Issued when a tropical cyclone with sustained winds of 74 mph or higher is expected in 36 hours or less. May include storm surge and flooding.
SOUTHERN TIDES MAGAZINE
General Safety Reminders • Leave prior to an evacuation order if at all possible. • If you live in a mobile home, evacuate, no matter what. • Never drive on flooded roads or walk through flood water. • Keep a close eye out for downed power lines at all times. • Stay away from windows and doors when wind speeds increase. • Do not use candles or other sources of open flame for light when the power is out. • Discard any refrigerated food that is questionable after a power outage; assume all food that was touched by flood waters is contaminated and discard it. • Don’t allow your pets to eat or drink anything found outside after a storm. • Do not drink tap water during or after a storm until water restrictions have been lifted. • Do not attempt to re-enter an evacuation zone until restrictions have been lifted. • Attempt to help anyone in need, but do not move injured persons. • Monitor local weather for tornado warnings and storm updates. • Do not operate a generator indoors or near open windows and doors. • Do not attempt to connect a generator directly to your electrical panel. • Turn off items that draw a lot of power (such as air conditioners) before power goes out. • Use caution when operating a chain saw, hand saw, or ax to remove debris. • Do not use a grill indoors. • Stay hydrated and take care not to get overheated during clean-up. • Wear gloves, boots, and sunscreen during clean-up.
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2017 HURRICANE GUIDE