What are hurricanes and tropical storms?
Powerful storms that form over tropical waters, generally from June to December, whose effects can include damaging surf and storm surge along coastlines, destructive winds (for hurricane, sustained winds of 74 MPH or higher; for tropical storms, sustained winds of 39 to 73 MPH), water spouts and tornadoes, and heavy rain and flooding. Since meteorologists are unable to accurately forecast hurricane and tropical storm speed, direction or intensity, it is important that residents PREPARE family emergency plans and assemble survival kits. Should one of these powerful storms strike Oahu, no area will be safe from its effects. How do I learn that hurricane or tropical storm conditions are expected? The National Weather Service (NWS), through NOAA weather radio, newspapers, and local radio and television stations, will issue hurricane or tropical storm WATCHES and WARNINGS. A WATCH means there is a threat of hurricane or tropical storm conditions to Oahu within 48 hours. A WARNING is issued
