Storm Tide Facts over 6,000 people were killed in the Galveston Hurricane of 1900-most by the storm tide. Hurricane Camille in 1969 produced a 25-foot storm tide in Mississippi. Hurricane Hugo in 1989 generated a 20-foot storm tide in South Carolina. This is the major threat to areas well inland. 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.
Areas At Risk Coastal Areas and Barrier Islands. All Atlantic and Gulf coastal areas are subject to hurricanes or tropical storms. Although rarely struck by hurricanes, parts of the Southwest United States and Pacific Coast suffer heavy rains and floods each year from the remnants of hurricanes spawned off Mexico. Islands, such as Hawaii, Guam, American Samoa, and Puerto Rico, are also subject to hurricanes. During 1993, Guam was battered by five typhoons.