What is the slosh model?
The Sea, Lake and Overland Surges from Hurricanes (SLOSH) model is a computerized numerical model developed by the National Weather Service (NWS) to estimate storm surge heights resulting from historical, hypothetical, or predicted hurricanes by taking into account the atmospheric pressure, size, forward speed, and …
How do you stay safe during a storm surge?
Take safe shelter immediately inside a sturdy building, away from windows, doors and electrical appliances. Avoid contact with conductors of electricity, appliances, metal objects and water. Get out of boats and away from water. Find a low spot (but one that will not flood) away from trees, fences and poles.
What is the typical storm surge height in feet sea level height above normal for a Category 3 hurricane?
9–12 feet
Category 3—Winds 111–129 mph, storm surge 9–12 feet, extensive damage to small buildings and low-lying roofs. Category 4—Winds 130-156 mph, storm surge 13–18 feet, extreme damage with destroyed roofs and mobile homes, downed trees, cut off roads, and flooded homes.
How can you protect yourself and your family from a storm surge?
Make sure the basement windows are closed and your car is fueled. Keep an inventory of all your property. Make sure you have everything you need in an emergency supply kit. Include changes of clothes, battery-powered radios, batteries and flashlights [source: Public Safety Emergency Preparedness Canada].
How up to what height can storm surges raise the water level?
20 feet
Depending on the size and track of the hurricane, storm surge flooding can last for several hours. It then recedes after the storm passes. Water level heights during a hurricane can reach 20 feet (6 meters) or more above normal sea level.
When was the slosh model created?
The NWS storm surge model, named SLOSH for Sea, Lake, and Overland Surges from Hurricanes, evolved from earlier models developed in the late 1960’s and early 1970’s (e.g., Jelesnianski 1972).
How do you prepare for a storm surge?
If a storm surge is forecast
- Check supplies including medications, radio, flashlight and batteries.
- You may have to evacuate. Keep your emergency kit close at hand.
- Make sure the basement windows are closed.
- Fuel your car. If evacuation becomes necessary, it will be hard to stop for gas.
How do you prepare for a storm?
Be sure to prepare the following:
- An emergency food and water supply.
- An emergency medicine supply.
- Emergency power sources such as flashlights (don’t forget extra batteries).
- Safety and personal items.
- Important documents, including medical documents, wills, passports, and personal identification.
- A fire extinguisher.
What two main factors cause increased height of a storm surge?
A storm surge is primarily caused by the relationship between the winds and the ocean’s surface. The water level rises where the winds are strongest. In addition, water is pushed in the direction the winds are blowing.
What is storm surge model?
Storm surge models are a useful scientific tool for predicting real-time storm surge and future planning. These models provide real-time forecasting of the water level and potential inundation under storm conditions.
What should you do before during and after storm surge?
Be ready for the possibility of evacuating to a more elevated area or evacuation center even before the storm surge happens. Always be calm and composed. Prepare and bring the following with you: clothes, food and water, first aid kit, flashlight, and battery-operated radio. Evacuate to a more elevated place.
What you need during a storm?
What should you do in a storm?
Close windows, external and internal doors. Pull curtains and drapes over unprotected glass areas to prevent injury from shattered or flying glass. If the wind becomes destructive, stay away from doors and windows and shelter further inside the house. Avoid bathtubs, water taps, and sinks.
What is a 3 foot storm surge?
A strong wind that is pushing towards the coast is pushing all that water forward onto land. There is nowhere for the water to go… except onto land. Advertisement. 3 feet of storm surge can carry parked cars and sweep any person of their feet.
How can the impact of storm surge be reduced?
Coastal residents can reduce the damage done by a storm surge by protecting local wetlands. Wetlands, such as swamps, estuaries, and mud flats, act as sponges for tropical cyclones. As the cyclone makes landfall, the marshy land and plants absorb the water and the energy of the storm surge.
How does storm surge work?
Storm surge is produced by water being pushed toward the shore by the force of the winds moving cyclonically around the storm. The impact on surge of the low pressure associated with intense storms is minimal in comparison to the water being forced toward the shore by the wind.
What should you do after storm surge?
Unplug small appliances. Fill bathtub and large containers with water for sanitary purposes. Stay away from windows and doors even if they are covered. Take refuge in a small interior room, closet, or hallway.