While hurricanes are often the greatest threats to life and property, there is no stopping them from happening. A hurricane is one of the most devastating calamities that can happen and for us to avoid greater damage to our property, such as Water Damage in Fort Myers, we need to rely on hurricane alerts and warnings.
What is a Hurricane?
Hurricanes are a part of our lives more often than not. They usually occur in the North Atlantic Ocean and the easternmost parts of the Northeast and South Pacific Ocean. Another natural disaster and the sister of a hurricane is called a typhoon. Typhoons occur in the Northwest Pacific Ocean, the west part of the dateline. If you live near the coastal areas, you’d most likely be affected by hurricanes since they pose the greatest threat to residents around the area.
The extent of a hurricane’s destruction comes from the intensity of the storm. Several factors include the effectiveness of warnings and the presence of defensive structures like seawalls and mangroves.
Hurricane Categories
There are about 5 categories in measuring hurricanes, according to the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.
- Category 1 (74-95 mph) - Very dangerous winds will produce some damage: Well-constructed frame homes could have damage to the roof, shingles, vinyl siding, and gutters. Large branches of trees will snap and shallowly rooted trees may be toppled. Extensive damage to power lines and poles likely will result in power outages that could last a few to several days.
- Category 2 (96-110 mph) - Extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage: Well-constructed frame homes could sustain major roof and siding damage. Many shallowly rooted trees will be snapped or uprooted and block numerous roads. Near-total power loss is expected with outages that could last from several days to weeks.
- Category 3 (111-129 mph) - Devastating damage will occur: Well-built framed homes may incur major damage or removal of roof decking and gable ends. Many trees will be snapped or uprooted, blocking numerous roads. Electricity and water will be unavailable for several days to weeks after the storm passes.
- Category 4 (130-156 mph) - Catastrophic damage will occur: Well-built framed homes can sustain severe damage with loss of most of the roof structure and/or some exterior walls. Most trees will be snapped or uprooted and power poles downed. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas. Power outages will last weeks to possibly months. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.
- Category 5 (157 mph or higher) - Catastrophic damage will occur: A high percentage of framed homes will be destroyed, with total roof failure and wall collapse. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas. Power outages will last for weeks to possibly months. Most of the areas will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.
Emergency Alerts and Warnings in Florida
The Florida government uses these three emergency alert systems to disseminate information about the upcoming hurricane:
- The Integrated Public Alerts and Warning System or IPAWSA is a modernization and integration of the nation’s existing and future alert warning systems, infrastructure, and technology.
- The EAS or Emergency Alert System is a national public warning system that demands broadcasters and other digital audio services to give the President the capability to communicate in addressing the people within 10 minutes during a national emergency.
- It can also be used by state and local authorities to bring important emergency information like weather threats, AMBER alerts, and local incident information targeted to some areas.
Florida Water and Storm Damage Repairs
We have to face it. Although there are alerts and warnings given, hurricanes and other natural disasters do not really give you enough time to prepare. They cause serious damages that can baffle any homeowner or establishment. The experienced team at ServiceMaster by Wright can assist you with all detailed restoration. We at ServiceMaster by Wright are available for Fort Myers Storm Damage Repair.
If you are looking for a Fort Myers Water Damage Restoration Company, better contact ServiceMaster by Wright right away! Don’t waste time and contact our hotline at (239) 431-9947.
