The combination of storm surge, battering waves, and high tide is the hurricane's most deadly killer. The floods and flash floods brought by the torrential rains of a hurricane are dangerous killers. Even though hurricanes weaken rapidly as they move inland, the remnants of the storm can bring 6 to 12 inches of rain or more to the area it crosses. The resulting floods have caused great damage and loss of life. For some structures, wind force is sufficient to cause destruction.
Mobile homes are particularly vulnerable to hurricane winds.
Some hurricanes spawn tornadoes which contribute to incredible destruction. The greatest threat from a hurricane's winds is their cargo of debris-a deadly barrage of flying missiles such as lawn furniture, signs, roofing, and metal siding.