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1. What is a Hurricane?

A tropical weather system characterized by constant circulation of maximum sustained winds of 74 miles per hour (mph) or higher that is usually accompanied by rain, thunder, lightning, and possibly tornadoes. Sustained winds are continuously blowing at a certain speed (as opposed to wind gusts, which can be higher. Hurricanes are classified into five categories, which range from category 1 (winds of 74 mph) to category 5 (winds of 155 mph and over.).

2. What is a Hurricane Watch?

Hurricane conditions (winds of over 74 miles per hour) are possible within the designated area for which the watch is issued within 48 hours. Residents are advised to put their hurricane plan into action and secure your home and hurricane supplies during this time. Gas up motor vehicles and get cash. Stay tuned to local media for advisories on the latest forecast. Local media includes television news media (local ABC, CBS, NBC, or Fox affiliates), news talk radio (such as WIOD 610 am).

3. What is a Hurricane Warning?

Hurricane conditions (winds over 74 miles per hour) are expected to impact somewhere in the designated area. The warning is issued 36 hours before the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.