Know the difference:-

Hurricane Season is from June 1st – November 30th.  Peak hurricane season for Bermuda is between August and October.

Hurricane Watch - Hurricane conditions that are a threat within 48 hours.
Here are a few tips on vehicle preparation:

• Fill up your fuel tank early in order to prevent extended wait times at the pumps
• Conserve the amount of fuel you use by consolidating any tasks into one trip instead of multiple trips
• Avoid rush hour traffic if possible
• Replace air filters if dirty or clogged
• Ensure tires are inflated to correct pressure
• Always use the recommended grade of oil for your vehicle. Refer to owner’s manual if unsure
• Check the key fluids such as oil, power steering, brake, transmission, windshield washer, and antifreeze.  If unsure how ask your mechanic.

Hurricane Warning – Hurricane conditions that are expected within 36 hours.
Here are some additional tips:

• Drive slowly. Avoid heavy acceleration and sudden braking.
• If stopped for an extended period of time, turn off your vehicle so it is not idling.

Hurricane Categories:-

Category 1 – Maximum sustained winds of 118 to 152 kilometers per hour. Barometric pressure in the eye no less than 28.94 inches of mercury. These hurricanes result in minimum damage to shorelines. Minor damage to buildings, trees and shrubs could be uprooted, some flooding is likely.

Category 2 - Maximum sustained winds of 154 to 176 kilometers per hour. Barometric pressure in the eye no less than 28.30 inches of mercury. Potential for serious damage to building, roofing and windows could be threatened, strong possibility of flooding.

Category 3 – Maximum sustained winds of 177 to 208 kilometers per hour. Barometric pressure no less than 27.91 inches of mercury. Damage to building and services (electricity, water, and telephone. Fallen trees and utility poles could block roads, flooding.

Category 4 – maximum sustained winds of 209 to 248 kilometers per hour. Barometric pressure no less than 27.17 inches of mercury. Heavy damage to structures, agricultures, roads and bridges. Major beach erosion and heavy flooding.

Category 5 – Maximum sustained winds higher than 248 kilometers per hour with a gust of 320 km/h and higher. Extreme destruction of structures and services. Complete roof failures and heavy damage to smaller buildings. Massive flooding, evacuation may be necessary for areas at ground level up to 25 feet above sea level.

Hurricane Terms

• Tropical Depression – A tropical cyclone with maximum sustained wind speed up to 62 km/h
• Tropical Storm – A well-organized tropical cyclone with maximum wind speed in the range 63 to 117 km/h
• Hurricane – A tropical cyclone with maximum wind speed equal to or greater than 118 km/h
• Hurricane eye – The relatively calm area in the center of a hurricane with a light winds and clouds and warm temperatures. The bordered by the maximum winds of the hurricane and torrential rains.
• Storm Surge – A great dome of water often as much as 80km wide that sweeps across the coastline near the sea. The surge is the most dangerous part of the hurricane. People who live near the coastline should move to higher ground.