Tropical Storms/Hurricanes

Click for the latest reports from the National Hurricane Center.

Hurricane Preparedness and Safety

Hurricanes are powerful and potentially devastating tropical storms that can cause significant damage through high winds, heavy rainfall, flooding, and storm surges. The City of Huntsville Emergency Management is dedicated to ensuring the safety and preparedness of our community during hurricane season.

Understanding Hurricanes

  • Formation: Hurricanes develop over warm ocean waters and can intensify quickly.
  • Categories: Classified from Category 1 to Category 5 based on wind speeds, with Category 5 being the most severe.
  • Impacts: Hurricanes can cause severe wind damage, flooding, power outages, and disruptions to daily life.

Preparedness Tips

  1. Create an Emergency Kit: Include essentials such as water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlight, batteries, and important documents.
  2. Develop a Family Plan: Establish a communication plan, designate a meeting place, and make arrangements for pets.
  3. Stay Informed: Monitor local news, weather updates, and alerts from the National Weather Service.
  4. Secure Your Home: Install storm shutters, reinforce doors, and secure outdoor objects that could become projectiles.

During a Hurricane

  • Evacuation: Follow evacuation orders from local authorities promptly.
  • Shelter: If not evacuating, take shelter in a small, windowless room on the lowest level of your home.
  • Stay Indoors: Avoid going outside until authorities declare it safe, even if it seems calm (eye of the hurricane).

After a Hurricane

  • Safety First: Avoid flooded areas and downed power lines.
  • Check for Damage: Inspect your home for structural damage and report any issues to local authorities.
  • Stay Informed: Continue to listen to local news for updates on recovery efforts and assistance.

For more detailed information and resources on hurricane preparedness, please visit the National Hurricane Center and Ready.gov.

The City of Huntsville Emergency Management is here to support you. Stay safe and prepared this hurricane season. For any emergency management information, contact EMC Adam Winningham, Monday through Thursday from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Stay connected and stay safe, Huntsville!_images_wrn_hurricanep-preparedness_2-HPW-Evacuation-Plan