The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale

In 1971, civil engineer Herbert Saffir and meteorologist Dr. Robert Simpson developed the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale. The initial scale showed the expected damage to structures based upon wind speed and storm surge effects. In 2010, the National Hurricane Center removed storm surge and barometric pressure from the Saffir-Simpson Scale, turning it into the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane […]

Health and safety concerns

Health Care Due to structural damage, the offices and operations of medical facilities and hospitals may very likely be limited. A mobile health unit may be available to provide services to residents with minor medical needs such as cuts, scrapes, bruises and illnesses. Stay tuned to WINK News for information regarding medical treatments. Food Safety […]

Hurricane Hazards

Tropical storm-force winds are strong enough to be dangerous to those caught outside in them. Powerful, hurricane-force winds can easily destroy poorly constructed buildings and mobile homes. Debris such as signs, roofing material, and small items left outside become flying missiles in hurricanes. Extensive damage to trees, towers, water and underground utility lines (from uprooted […]

Hurricane terms you should know

Center – The vertical axis of a tropical cyclone, usually defined by the location of minimum wind or minimum pressure. Eye – The relatively calm area in the center of a hurricane. It can range from 5 to more than 50 miles wide. Eye Wall – A doughnut-shaped zone of the highest winds and heavy rain […]

What is storm surge?

Storm surge is water that is pushed toward the shore by the force of the winds swirling around the storm. This advancing surge combines with the normal tides to create the hurricane storm surge, which can increase water levels by 15 feet or more. Wind-driven waves also can raise water levels to devastating heights – […]