Even though hurricanes weaken rapidly as they move inland, they may cause rain to fall for days. The resulting floods have caused great damage and loss of life. Hurricane-force winds destroy buildings and mobile homes. Debris, such as signs, roofing material, siding, and small items left outside, become flying missiles in hurricanes. Winds often stay above hurricane strength well inland.
Tornadoes produced by hurricanes add to the destructive power.
These often occur in thunderstorms embedded in rain bands well away from the center of the hurricane. All of the Americas' Atlantic and Gulf coastal areas are subject to hurricanes or tropical storms. Parts of the Southwest United States and Pacific Coast suffer heavy rains and floods each year from the remnants of hurricanes spawned off Mexico. Consider this before, during and after a hurricane. Safety rules and planning will make things easier for you during a hurricane.