A 15 foot surge added to the normal 2 foot tide creates a storm tide of 17 feet. This mound of water, topped by battering waves, moves ashore along the coastline. The combination of storm surge, battering waves, and high winds is deadly. Hurricane force winds of 74 mph or greater, can destroy poorly constructed buildings and mobile homes. Debris, such as signs, roofing material, siding and small items left outside, become flying missiles.
Winds often stay above hurricane strength well inland.
It is important to prepare your home from the effects of hurricane force winds. Floods Widespread torrential rains often in excess of six inches can produce deadly and destructive floods. Normal drainage systems along the coast may be full from the storm surge, causing flooding in areas not normally prone to floods. Flooding may also be a major threat to areas well inland. Tornadoes Hurricanes also produce tornadoes, which add to the storm's destructive power.