The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 – November 30. While devastating hurricanes can occur anytime during those months, peak hurricane season is mid-August to late October. It is important to remember the forecast cone is NOT an impact cone.
Impacts from tropical systems can and will be felt far from the storm’s center. The center of the storm does not need to make landfall in North Carolina for the state to feel severe impacts.
WATCHES & WARNINGS
Knowing the difference between watches and warnings can help you and your family stay safe as a storm threatens your area. Watches mean that severe conditions haven’t occurred yet, but could in the near future. If a Warning is issued, it means dangerous weather is imminent. Preparedness activities become difficult once winds reach tropical storm force.
WIND DAMAGE
Tropical storm force winds (39-73 mph) and hurricane force winds (>74 mph) are strong enough to inflict injury and damage or destroy property. The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale classifies storms into five categories based on sustained wind speed. This scale does not account for the threat of storm surge, heavy rain and tornadoes.
STORM SURGE
Storm surge is produced by water being pushed toward the shore by the force of the wind. This rise in water can cause extreme flooding and is often the greatest threat to life and property for coastal areas. To help you prepare, forecasts are expressed as feet of water above ground.
HEAVY RAIN
Tropical systems often produce widespread heavy rain, which can result in deadly and destructive flash flooding and long-term river flooding. Rainfall amounts are not related to the strength of the storm, but rather to the speed, size and geography of the area. Never drive on flooded roadways. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
STORM NAMES FOR 2022
- Alex
- Bonnie
- Colin
- Danielle
- Earl
- Fiona
- Gaston
- Hermine
- Ian
- Julia
- Karl
- Lisa
- Martin
- Nicole
- Owen
- Paula
- Richard
- Shary
- Tobias
- Virginie
- Walter
TRACKING MAP
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