Hurricanes and Tropical Storms

Hurricane Watch vs. Hurricane Warning

Hurricanes are massive storm systems that form over warm ocean waters and move toward land. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30. Hurricanes can affect areas more than 100 miles inland.

If you are under a Hurricane Warning, find safe shelter right away! 

• Determine how best to protect yourself from high winds and flooding.
• Evacuate if told to do so.
• Take refuge in a designated storm shelter or an interior room for high winds.
• Listen for emergency information and alerts.
• Only use generators outdoors and away from windows.
• Turn around, don’t drown! Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Heed Flood Warning Signs posted in floodprone areas.

Risks from hurricanes

• Powerful winds (downed trees and power lines)
• Heavy rainfall
• Flooding
• Tornadoes
• Landslides
• Storm surges (coastal areas only)

Hurricane Watch vs. Hurricane Warning

When hurricanes are expected, the Weather Service will issue watches and warnings>



A Hurricane Watch means tropical storm conditions are possible in a specific area. A Hurricane Watch is issued when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 24-36 hours.

A Hurricane Warning means tropical storm/hurricane conditions are expected in a specific area. A Hurricane Warning is issued when hurricane conditions (winds of 74 miles per hour or greater, or dangerously high water and rough seas) are expected in 24 hours or less.

During a hurricane

• If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Do not drive around barricades.
• If sheltering during high winds, go to a FEMA safe room, storm shelter or a small, interior, windowless room, or hallway on the lowest floor that is not subject to flooding.
• If trapped in a building by flooding, go to the highest level of the building. Do not climb into a closed attic. You may become trapped by rising flood water.
• Listen for current emergency information and instructions.
• Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machinery outdoors ONLY and away from windows.
• Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn around, don’t drown! Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away. Heed Flood Warning Signs posted in flood-prone areas.

After a hurricane

• Check on friends and neighbors.
• Listen to authorities for information and special instructions.
• Be careful during clean-up. Wear protective clothing and work with someone else.
• Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. If it is safe to do so, turn off electricity at the main breaker or fuse box to prevent electric shock.
• Avoid wading in flood water, which can contain dangerous debris. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.
• Save phone calls for emergencies. Phone systems are often down or busy after a disaster. Use text messages or social media to communicate with family and friends.
• Document any property damage with photographs. Contact your insurance company for assistance.
• Watch for fallen power lines and trees. Do not go near a fallen power line! Report all power line hazards to Duke Energy at 800-228-8485.