Hurricane Definitions

Tropical Depression

• Tropical system with the maximum sustained surface wind of 33 knots (38 mph) or less. Tropical depressions can produce tremendous rainfall.

Tropical Storm Watch

• Announcement that a tropical storm or tropical storm conditions pose a threat to coastal areas generally within 36 hours.

Tropical Storm Warning

• Warning that a tropical storm or tropical storm conditions will affect a specifi c coastal area within 24 hours or less.

Tropical Storm

• Tropical system with the maximum sustained surface wind ranges from 34 to 63 knots (39-73 mph). Tropical storms can create a lot of rainfall. Wind from these storms can cause beach erosion and boat damage.

Hurricane Watch

• Announcement that hurricane conditions pose a possible threat to coastal areas generally within 36 hours.

Hurricane Warning

• Warning that hurricane conditions are expected within 24 hours or less. This is the time to prepare yourself for severe weather. High winds and coastal fl ooding will develop many hours before the eye of the storm actually comes ashore. Hurricane • Tropical system with maximum sustained surface wind of 64 knots (74 mph) or greater. A hurricane is the worst and the strongest of all tropical systems.

Hurricane Eye

• The calm center of the storm. In this area, winds are light and the sky is partly covered by clouds. The period of calm may only last 10-20 minutes before the severe weather returns.

Storm Surge

• Abnormal rise in sea level accompanying a hurricane or other.