Hurricanes

Hurricanes are severe tropical storms that form over the ocean or the Gulf. Hurricanes rotate in a counter-clockwise direction around an "eye", which is typically the calm center of the violent rotating storm. They gain their power over the warm evaporating seawaters and bring very strong waves, winds and rains to the mainland.

As a hurricane approaches land, it can destroy buildings, flood homes and destroy roadways with winds soaring above 74 miles per hour and often reaching more than 200 miles per hour. It is very important that you seek shelter from these storms, which can often mean evacuating your area.

Also, beware that the "eye" of a hurricane may indicate that the storm is over, however, you should know that the most destructive part of the hurricane is on its way. After the "eye" passes over, heavier winds will blow in the opposite direction with even more rain and flooding conditions.