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Hurricanes and tropical storms are unpredictable beasts. They can intensify and change directions without notice, making storm preparation vital for minimizing hurricane damage. Experts can only predict how many hurricanes will make landfall in the U.S. each year based on historical data and current weather patterns. Meteorologists use the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale to indicate a storm’s strength. They use data regarding air pressure, water temperatures, air temperatures, winds and other variables to predict where a storm might travel and how strong it could become. By understanding the hurricane category ratings, you can have a better idea about the impact that a storm could have on your commercial property.

The US Department of Homeland Security’s Ready Campaign along with The Advertising Council wants small businesses throughout the hurricane zone to start thinking about plans for disaster recovery. A series of national public service announcements will be released nationwide this month to encourage businesses to develop an emergency preparedness strategy that “defines their day after” a hurricane strikes their area.

One of the greatest causes of hurricane damage occurs as part of the initial storm surge that takes place. In fact, these surges typically result in the highest loss of life because of their suddenness and strength of force.

Home and business owners along the southern coast would do well to assess the threat of damage due to a storm surge to their property. A SLOSH model is what emergency managers use to determine which are residents should be evaluated first in the event of a major hurricane.

Property owners near storm surge zones know that having a proper emergency preparation and action plan is incredibly important during hurricane season. The following is some general advice given to those that may need to evacuate should a severe category storm come through and create a damaging surge near their home or office.