Hurricanes

Hurricanes are categorized by strength using the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale. The Saffir-Simpson scale assigns a 1 to 5 rating based on the hurricane’s intensity and estimates the potential of property damage. Hurricanes reaching Category 3 and higher are considered major hurricanes because of their potential for loss of life and damage.  Category 1 and 2 storms are still dangerous and warrant preventative measures

Category 1 hurricanes have sustained winds between 74 and 95 miles per hour.  Damage is primarily to shrubbery, trees, foliage and unanchored mobile homes.  No real damage to other structures.

Category 2 hurricanes have sustained winds between 96 and 110 miles per hour. Damage includes some trees blown down. Major damage to exposed mobile homes.  Some damage also occurs to roofing materials, windows and doors.

Category 3 hurricanes have sustained winds between 111 and 130 miles per hour.  Damage includes large trees blown down. Mobile homes destroyed.  Structural damage to some roofing materials as well as structural damage to some small buildings.

Category 4 hurricanes have sustained winds  between 131 and 155 miles per hour.  There will be extreme damage including trees blown down, complete destruction of mobile homes and extensive damage to roofing materials as well as windows and doors. There may be complete failure of roofs on many small residences.

Category 5 hurricanes can be catastrophic.  Complete failure of roofs on many residences and industrial buildings is likely.  There will be extensive damage to windows and doors including the possibly of complete building failure.

Hurricane Forecasting

Hurricane seasons, beginning June 1 and ending November 30, are assessed before the start of the season in terms of how many storms will occur relative to a normal or “neutral” year. An “average” season sees 10 storms, six hurricanes and tow major hurricanes.

Four times a year, the Tropical Meteorology Project produces outlooks for the coming hurricane season.

Protecting Yourself and Your Property

A Hurricane may affect South Jersey within 36 hours of a hurricane watch announcement.  In the event of a hurricane watch the township will activate the Emergency Operations Center.  Residents should stay tuned to local media for instructions and monitor this website for information.

• Prepare to be self-sufficient for at least three days without help or emergency services. Prepare a Go Bag and a Emergency Supply Kit. Assume that many of the streets and stores in our area will be closed. Expect disruptions to electric, gas, water and telephone service.
• Check on friends, relatives and neighbors.
• Bring inside loose, lightweight objects and anchor those items that cannot be brought inside.
• Fill your automobile gas tank.
• Get extra cash and place valuables into waterproof containers.