Oakland Park Hurricane Preparedness: Get Ready Now

Oakland Park residents must develop comprehensive hurricane preparedness plans as the season continues through Nov. 30. Summer activities like trips to Fort Lauderdale beach or neighborhood barbecues also carry the risk of severe weather, which can damage property and disrupt essential services such as water, telephone and electricity.

Tropical cyclones, which form in tropical regions, typically affect the area when they originate in the eastern Atlantic Ocean or the Caribbean Sea. The peak of the Atlantic hurricane season is around Sept. 10. These storms feature counter-clockwise circulation, strong winds, heavy rainfall, potential tornadoes and dangerous storm surge, which can lead to coastal flooding in all city areas.

Understanding tropical cyclone classifications helps residents prepare. A Tropical Depression has winds under 38 mph. A Tropical Storm, named by the National Hurricane Center in Miami, has winds between 39 and 73 mph. A Hurricane, with sustained winds of at least 74 mph, is categorized by the Saffir-Simpson Scale. Category 3 storms and above are major hurricanes, capable of widespread destruction.

The National Hurricane Center issues watches and warnings. A Tropical Storm Watch indicates possible tropical storm conditions within 48 hours. A Tropical Storm Warning signals expected conditions within 36 hours. A Hurricane Watch is issued 48 hours in advance of anticipated tropical-storm-force winds, and a Hurricane Warning is issued 36 hours in advance of expected hurricane conditions.

Stay informed through official channels and prepare homes and businesses well in advance of any storm threat.