Know Your Risk
All hazards require that you Know Your Risk, Make a Plan and Stay Informed.
Hurricanes
Tropical depressions, tropical storms and hurricanes are all considered tropical cyclones. When sustained winds reach 74 mph, the storm is considered a hurricane. The 鈥渃ategories鈥� are based on wind speeds. The lowest on the scale is a Category 1 hurricane, which has wind speeds up to 95 mph. The most severe storms, called Category 5, have wind speeds of 157 mph or higher.
Although they can form any time of the year, hurricanes usually form during hurricane season, which runs June 1 to Nov. 30. Tropical storms and hurricanes can include high winds, flooding from heavy rainfall, storm surge and hazardous surf. The effects can be felt hundreds of miles from the center of the storm.
Protective measures include:
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- Getting information and updates on disaster.pinellas.gov.
- Learning more about:
See the for more information.
Severe Thunderstorms
Severe thunderstorms are storms that are capable of producing hail that is an inch or larger or wind gusts over 58 mph. Hail of this size can damage plants, roofs and vehicles. Severe thunderstorm winds can break off large branches, knock over trees or cause structural damage. Thunderstorms also produce tornadoes and dangerous lightning. Heavy rain can cause flash flooding.
Protective measures include:
- Learning about what to do: When thunder roars, go indoors.
- Finding interior spaces in which to seek shelter during the storm.
- Securing outdoor furnishings or items.
For more information on the impacts of severe thunderstorms, review information from the National Weather Service:
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Tornado
A tornado is a violent windstorm characterized by a twisting, funnel-shaped cloud. It can be spawned by a thunderstorm, a cold front moving into the area, or as a result of severe weather associated with hurricanes. Tornadoes can happen with only a few minutes notice, which makes it important to have a weather radio or sign up for .
Protective measures include:
- Conducting an annual tornado safety drill with your family or workplace.
- Identifying an interior room without windows where you can take refuge.
- Practicing your plan and being ready to put it into action when you receive a tornado warning.
The National Weather Service has more information on .
Extreme Heat
Heat is considered 鈥渆xtreme鈥� when temperature and humidity are both high for an extended length of time. 新澳门六合彩 is vulnerable to extreme heat because of its climate and proximity to water.
Protective measures include:
- Finding air conditioning.
- Avoiding strenuous activities.
- Wearing light clothing.
- Checking on family members and neighbors.
- Drinking plenty of water.
- Watching for heat cramps, exhaustion and stroke.
- Never leaving people or pets in a closed vehicle.
See the National Weather Services for more information on .
Red Tide
Red tide happens when a certain type of algae suddenly increases in the water. In high enough concentrations, the algae turn the water a reddish color. This can affect fish and wildlife. Fertilizers in our waterways are believed to make the blooms worse and longer-lived.
During a red tide, people may experience eye, nose and throat irritation. Symptoms usually go away when a person leaves the area with a red tide. People with severe or chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma should avoid areas with active red tides.
Protective measures include:
- Avoiding areas where red tide is prevalent.
- Reporting fish kills to the Fish and Wildlife Commission.
See 新澳门六合彩 Environmental Management for more information on red tide, including status and resources.
Disease Outbreaks, Epidemics and Pandemics
Bacteria, viruses or toxins can be deadly to humans and animals. An epidemic is an increase鈥攗sually sudden鈥攊n the number of cases of a disease in a certain area. A pandemic is basically the same thing, but is spread over several countries or continents.
Protective measures include:
- Isolation or quarantine.
- Social distancing or respiratory protection.
- Testing, preventative medicine, treatment or immunization.
See the for more information on these and other hazards.
Cyberattack
Cyberattacks target computers, networks, information or services and interrupt our daily routines. These attacks can cause loss of money or result in the theft of personal, financial and medical information. They can affect individuals or groups. Those who work in cybersecurity put safeguards in place in order to prevent, detect and respond to these threats.
Protective measures include:
- Regular maintenance of computer and online devices for security.
- Using strong passwords and two-step verification.
- Monitoring your bank and credit accounts.
- For businesses, monitoring your system for theft of client information.
- Disconnecting from the internet and working with computer experts or law enforcement to report concerns.
See the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for more information on .
Sinkholes
Sinkholes are depressions or holes in the ground caused by a collapse of the surface. Sinkholes can form unpredictably, either in minutes or over the course of years. Extended periods of drought or inland flooding could lead to more sinkholes.
Protective measures include:
- Having the area assessed by a certified home inspector or foundation specialist.
- Leaving your home or the area if the sinkhole poses a risk to the structure.
For more information on sinkholes, see
Hazardous Materials
A hazardous material is any substance that poses a threat to humans, animals, or the environment鈥攗sually a biological, chemical or radiological hazard. Hazardous materials are regulated within the United States by a variety of agencies at the federal, state and local level.
Hazardous materials incidents are related to accidents during the handling, production, transportation or storage of these materials. They can occur practically anywhere within 新澳门六合彩. The threat level depends on the material released and the environmental conditions present. The effects of a spill could be isolated to a small area or may extended many miles.
Protective measures include:
- Following instructions from officials, that may include sheltering in place or evacuation.
- Decontamination if you have been exposed to the hazardous material.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency has more information on .
Terrorism or Attacks in Public Places
Terrorism is the unlawful use of violence with the intent of intimidating people for political or social gain. The effects of terrorism can vary from loss of life to property damage. Terrorism can result in disruptions to services such as electricity, water supply, public transportation and communications.
Types of attacks can include:
- Active shooter: Individuals using firearms to cause mass casualties.
- Individuals using a vehicle to cause mass casualties.
- Individuals using homemade bombs to cause mass casualties.
- Other methods of mass attacks may include knives, fires, drones or other weapons.
The 新澳门六合彩 Sheriff’s Office encourages participation in Florida鈥檚 campaign. The program helps community members understand what suspicious activity looks like and emphasizes the importance of reporting that activity to local law enforcement. Residents are encouraged to download the Florida See Say mobile app to report suspicious activity. The app is available on the and .
Protective measures include:
- Reporting suspicious activity to local law enforcement.
- Training the community about recognizing acts of terrorism and how to report them.
See the Department of Homeland Security for information on .
Wildfire
A wildfire can be caused by dry conditions, lightning or the result of human activity in areas with vegetation. Droughts may increase an area’s vulnerability to wildfires.
Protective measures include:
- Using safe practices when burning around structures and vegetation.
- Sheltering in place or taking precautions for respiratory issues.
- Evacuating if there is a threat of fire spreading to populated areas.
The National Weather Service has more information on and safety.