Storm surge is often the greatest threat to life and property from a hurricane. A mere six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes only two feet of rushing water to carry away most vehicles — including pickups and SUVs.

Watch this short video to see how dangerous storm surge can be - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHuAiELwlLU

Storm surge can cause water levels to rise quickly and flood large areas — sometimes in just minutes, and you could be left with no time to take action if you haven’t already evacuated as instructed. During the peak of a storm surge event, it is unlikely that emergency responders will be able to reach you if you are in danger.

Storm surge values do not correspond well to the hurricane wind categories (of the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale) that range from 1 to 5. These categories are based only on winds and DO NOT account for storm surge. Tropical storms, category 1 or 2 hurricanes, major (category 3 to 5) hurricanes, and post-tropical cyclones can all cause life-threatening storm surge.

Storm surge can occur before, during, or after the storm's center passes through an area and can sometimes cut off evacuation routes. Do not delay leaving if an evacuation is ordered for your area.

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