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Watch this video explaining the differences between hurricane categories.

Storm surge poses the greatest threat to life and property along the coast. A storm surge is a significant rise of water, capable of reaching over 20 feet (6 meters), pushed inland by a storm’s winds. A storm tide arises when a storm surge occurs at the same time as an astronomical tide . The combination of storm surge and large waves can result in loss of life, destroyed infrastructure, beach and dune erosion, and the destruction of roads and bridges along the coast. If the storm surge is powerful enough, it can travel several miles inland, causing saltwater to mix with freshwater, endangering public health and the environment. Hurricanes cause torrential rains in excess of six inches; these rains can lead to deadly and destructive floods. For people living inland, flooding is the biggest threat from hurricanes. Flash flooding is a rapid rise in water levels; these floods occur quickly due to significant rainfall.

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Facing the Weather: Hurricanes