Florida Keys Hurricane

What should you understand about a Florida Keys hurricane or tropical storm if you're here in the Fabulous Florida Keys?

Tropical storms and hurricanes are cyclonic storms with associated high winds and rain.

A tropical storm has sustained winds of over 39 mph and can also bring heavy rain and the possibility of severe thunderstorms and flooding.

When winds reach 74 mph the storm is upgraded to hurricane status. In addition to all the threats a tropical storm can bash us with, a hurricane packs even stronger winds and torrential rains.

In low lying areas like the Keys the real threat from a hurricane is storm surge and its associated rise in waters levels.

In Islamorada, during a 1960 Florida Keys Hurricane named Donna, water actually covered much of the area to depths of over 6 feet. Tornadoes can accompany a tropical storm or hurricane.

The eye of a hurricane has comparatively lighter winds and fairer weather. At times even the sky or stars can be seen. The eye of a hurricane can range in size from 5-120 miles across.

A hurricane watch indicates that hurricane conditions could be expected in the next 36 hours.

A hurricane warning for your area indicates that winds of at least 74 mph are expected within 24 hours.

Hurricane Andrew approaching South Florida and the Keys early in the morning on August 23, 1992.

Hurricanes are categorized using the Saffir Simpson scale.

• Tropical storm—wind speeds between 39-73 mph
• Category 1—wind speeds between 74-95 mph
• Category 2—wind speeds between 96-110 mph
• Category 3—wind speeds between 111-130 mph
• Category 4—wind speeds between 131-155 mph
• Category 5—wind speeds 156 mph and greater

If you are visiting the Keys during hurricane season, here are some important tips to remember.

• NOAA weather radio, local radio and television stations, will likely broadcast any evacuation instructions. If you are advised to leave, do so.
• There is only one path out of the Keys and that is US1. Pack your things and leave promptly. Drive with care. Visitors and residents alike will have the same goal of leaving the area to seek safety if an evacuation is ordered.
• Hurricane guides are available at some of our local hotels, grocery stores, shops, and restaurants.
• Emergency information is available on the Internet too at the National Hurricane Center site.
• Be sure you have a family disaster plan in place. Set a meeting place if the family gets separated. Decide on an out of state phone contact all family members can call to “check in” in case you get separated.
• Fuel all vehicles. It is also a good idea to have extra cash and credit cards on hand, as well as personal identification, medication, infant formula, and any valuable paperwork.