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Hurricanes Impact Our Lives

When a hurricane strikes the coast of the United States, it brings with it a number of serious hazards. These hazards include heavy rains, high winds, a storm surge, and even tornadoes.

Storm surge pushes seawater on shore during a hurricane, flooding towns near the coast.
(Image: Historic NWS Collection)

Heavy rains cause flooding in inland places as well. This picture was taken after Hurricane Floyd drenched parts of the U.S. East Coast with 8 to 16 inches of rain in 1999. (Image: NWS NOAA)

Do you see the piece of wood that is stuck within the trunk of this palm tree? Powerful winds during Hurricane Andrew drove it in there.
(Image: NHC NOAA)

High winds, storm surge, flooding and tornadoes cause damage to houses and cars that are in the path of a hurricane.
(Image: NHC NOAA)

People in communities near the coast usually have a few days warning as a hurricane approaches. People who make good decisions as the hurricane approaches are often left unharmed. Follow the links in the blue bar at the top of this page to learn more about hurricanes and how to make good decisions during a hurricane.