According to the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, the Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30 with the peak of the season occurring between mid-August and late October.
Each year, many coastal communities experience threats from hurricanes, including heavy rains, strong winds, rip currents, floods and coastal storm surges from tropical storms and hurricanes.
The VDEM has provided the following information on how to prepare for hurricanes and what to know as the peak of hurricane season approaches.
The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale indicates the severity of damage an area may experience. Some damage occurs with hurricane wind speeds of 74-95 miles per hour, extensive damage is experienced at 96-110 mph, devastating impacts are felt at 111-129 mph, and catastrophic damage is felt over 130 mph.
Tropical storm and hurricane advisories are issued when conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences that may be hazardous. If caution is used, these ...