Educational Facilities Disaster and Crisis Management Guidebook.

INTRODUCTION
Disasters and Catastrophic Events
Hurricanes
Hurricanes are events that can produce extremely high winds,
tornadoes, and torrential rain (leading to mud slides and flash
floods), and can drive storm surge onto coastal areas.
Secondary hurricane events include:
# Surge inundation.
# Rainfall flooding.
# High winds.
# Power outages.
# Tornadoes spawned by hurricanes.
# Hazardous material spills.
# Wind-borne debris.
# Fallen trees.
# Building damage.
Hurricane alerts include:
Hurricane watch
# A hurricane watch (HWA) is issued for a specified
coastal area for which a hurricane or a hurricanerelated
hazard is a possible threat within 36 hours.
Hurricane warning
# A hurricane warning (HWW) is issued when a
hurricane with sustained winds of 74 mph (65
knots, 118 kmh) or higher is expected in a
specified coastal area in 24 hours or less.
When a hurricane is imminent:
# Stay tuned to local radio, National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather alert
radio, or television for weather advisories and
special instructions from local government.
# Upon issuance of a hurricane warning:
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