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1. What are the other stages that storms progress through prior to becoming hurricanes?

The progressive levels of organized, disturbed weather in the tropics are:

• Tropical Disturbance: This is a discrete tropical weather system of apparently organized convection, 200 to 600 km (100 to 300 nautical miles) in diameter, originating in the tropics or subtropics, having a nonfrontal migratory character, and maintaining its identity for 24 hours or more.


• Tropical Depression: This is a tropical cyclone with a closed circulation in which the maximum sustained wind speed 38 mph or less.


• Tropical Storm: This is a tropical cyclone in which the maximum sustained surface wind speed ranges from 39 to 73 mph. The convection in tropical storms is usually more concentrated near the center with outer rainfall organizing into distinct bands.

The wind speeds mentioned above are for those measured or estimated as the top speed sustained for one minute at 10 meters above the surface. Peak gusts would be 10% - 25% higher.

2. What should be included in a disaster supply kit?

The following items are recommended for inclusion in your basic disaster supplies kit:

• Three-day supply of non-perishable food


• Three-day supply of water - one gallon of water per person, per day


• Portable, battery-powered radio or television and extra batteries


• Flashlight and extra batteries


• First aid kit and manual


• Sanitation and hygiene items (moist towelettes and toilet paper)


• Matches and waterproof container


• Whistle


• Extra clothing


• Kitchen accessories and cooking utensils, including a can opener


• Photocopies of credit and identification cards


• Cash and coins


• Special needs items, such as prescription medications, eye glasses, contact lens solutions, and hearing aid batteries


• Items for infants, such as formula, diapers, bottles, and pacifiers


• Other items to meet your unique family needs

If you live in a cold climate, you must think about warmth. It is possible that you will not have heat. Think about your clothing and bedding supplies. Be sure to include one complete change of clothing and shoes per person, including:

• Jacket or coat


• Long pants


• Long sleeve shirt


• Sturdy shoes


• Hat, mittens, and scarf


• Sleeping bag or warm blanket (per person)

Be sure to account for growing children and other family changes.

3. My family doesn’t have a car. What should we do during an evacuation?

Whether for financial reasons or just because the need isn’t there, many families don’t own private transportation. When creating your disaster readiness plan, you need to consider other options for relocating to a safe place.

First, if you are in an evacuation zone in Texas, call 2-1-1 to be listed for evacuation needs. Then, decide:

• Do you have relatives who can pick you up?


• Do you have friends who can take you with them?


• Does your community have evacuation plans in place for those requiring transportation?

Once you know what your options are, you can better prepare for the possibility of an evacuation.