The meteorologists at WeatherBELL Analytics use their expertise to warn readers of potential severe weather events with plenty of time to prepare. With Tropical Storm Isaac posing a threat to the US coastline, it is important that those at risk are prepared both professionally and personally.

Tropical Storm Isaac visible satellite image.

Photo: NOAA/NHC

Below are some basic guidelines to follow when preparing for a hurricane, as well as basic hurricane information that is important to understand. (All preparedness information is courtesy of the National Hurricane Center)

To prepare for a hurricane, it is first important to understand what a hurricane is. A hurricane is an intense tropical weather system with well defined circulation at the surface. Hurricanes consists of very strong thunderstorms and have maximum sustained winds of 74 mph (64 knots) or higher. Maximum sustained winds are 1-minute average winds measured at about 33 ft (10 meters) above the surface. Hurricanes are classified on the Saffir-Simpson Scale by analyzing the strength of their sustained winds. The scale is as follows:

Category 1:  74-95 mph

   Category 2:  96-110 mph

     Category 3:  111-130 mph

      Category 4:   131-155 mph

                       Category 5:  Greather than 155 mph

While strength of the hurricanes sustained winds is important, the threat of storm surge must also be taken very seriously. Along the coast, storm surge is often times the greatest threat to life and property. For example, during Hurricane Katrina, storm surge directly, and indirectly, caused much of the damage and many fatalities.  According to the NHC definition, storm surge is an abnormal rise of water generated by a storm, over and above the predicted astronomical tides. This can be extremely dangerous and can cause extreme flooding. Storm surge risks should be taken very seriously as hurricanes are monitored. Below is a graphic providing by the NHC showing the difference between storm surge, storm tide and normal high tide:

When in an area that is at risk of a hurricane making landfall, things can become very chaotic, very fast. To avoid that, those at risk should have a disaster kit ready. In this kit should be:

1. Water- At least one gallon per person, per day for 3 to 7 days

2. Food- At least enough of the following for 3 to 7 days: 

               - non-perishable packaged or canned food

               - non-electric can opener

               - cooking tools/fuel

               - paper plates/plastic utensils

3. Blankets, pillows, etc.

4. Clothing (including rain gear)

5. First aid kit (including any prescription drugs and medicines needed)

6. Toiletries

7. Flashlight (with extra batteries!)

8. Radio

9. Cash and Credit Cards

10. Keys

11. Telephones (fully charged!)

12. Important documents

13. Tools

14. Pet care items

15. Vehicle fuel tanks (filled)

Have a family disaster plan, and talk about it. Be sure everyone knows which areas in the house are the safest for each type of hurricane hazard (wind, storm surge, flooding). Click here to view more guidelines in preparing for a hurricane or tropical storm. 

WeatherBELL Analytics meteorologists anticipate a major threat over the next week. To be prepared you must be informed. Stay informed by visiting weatherbell.com.