Hurricanes

The Hurricane Season - The portion of the year having a relatively high incidence of hurricanes. The hurricane season in the Atlantic, Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico runs from June 1 to November 30.

Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale - hurricanes are categorized according to the strength of their winds.

Tropical Storm — winds 39-73 mph
Category 1 Hurricane — winds 74-95 mph
Category 2 Hurricane — winds 96-110 mph
Category 3 Hurricane — winds 111-130 mph
Category 4 Hurricane — winds 131-155 mph
Category 5 Hurricane — winds 156 mph and up

Hurricane Watch - An announcement for specific coastal areas that hurricane conditions are possible within 36 hours.

Hurricane Warning - A warning that sustained winds 74 mph or higher associated with a hurricane are expected in a specified coastal area in 24 hours or less. A hurricane warning can remain in effect when dangerously high water or a combination of dangerously high water and exceptionally high waves continue, even though winds may be less than hurricane force.

Storm Surge - The greatest potential for loss of life related to a hurricane is from the storm surge.

Tropical Storm - A tropical cyclone in which the maximum sustained surface wind speed (using the U.S. 1-minute average) ranges from 39 mph to 73 mph.

Tropical Depression - A tropical cyclone in which the maximum sustained surface wind speed (using the U.S. 1-minute average) is 38 mph or less.

Fort Lauderdale/ Broward County Hurricane Evacuation Map/ Regional Shelters – Those persons located in low lying areas or near tidal bodies of water should seek shelter elsewhere if conditions warrant. ALL mobile home residents must evacuate in Plan A and B. In addition, mobile home residents may be ordered to evacuate if tropical storm conditions warrant.