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Emergency Preparedness
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Storm Definitions
Storm Definitions
Hurricane Watch
Hurricane conditions pose a possible threat to your area, usually within 36 hours.
Hurricane Warning
Hurricane conditions are expected in your area within 24 hours.
Storm Categories
Category 1 - Winds 74-95 mph
Minimal structural damage
Mobile homes at risk
Power lines, signs and tree branches blown down
Storm surge - 4 to 5 ft.
Category 2 - Winds 96-110 mph
Moderate structural damage to walls, roofs and windows
Mobile homes at greater risk
Large signs and tree branches blown down
Storm surge - 6 to 8 ft.
Category 3 - Winds 111-130 mph
Extensive structural damage to walls, roofs and windows
Trees blown down
Storm surge 9 to 12 ft.
Category 4 - Winds 131-155 mph
Extreme damage to structures and roofs
Trees uprooted
Storm surge 13-18 ft.
Category 5 - Winds in excess of 155 mph
Catastrophic damage
Structures destroyed
Storm surge - 18 ft. or higher
Links
NPR: Hurricane Damage Simulation
Beaufort County
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