And many of those residents may be complacent about the threat from hurricanes. A recent survey by the American Red Cross found that while 58 percent of residents in Southern coastal states from North Carolina to Texas are concerned about hurricanes and flooding, only 48 percent of them have an evacuation plan. Still, those charged with tracking and responding to the storms are ready. At the Hurricane Center, forecasters even have some new tools at their disposal. One new computer program calculates a storm's strength by incorporating data on ocean temperature.
Warm water can signal a storm's strength since the heat provides feeds a storm's energy.
Training to respond to hurricanes is also key for preventing damages. Today in South Florida, federal, state and local officials are gathering for the final day of the seventh annual South Florida Hurricane Conference that provides training for emergency response officials. The first tropical storm for the 2001 season will be named Allison. ABC News Internet Ventures. Internet Safety Information applicable to the site.