First, let’s talk about what a hurricane actually is. A hurricane is a type of storm that is known as a tropical cyclone. It is the exact same thing as a cyclone and typhoon. The name just depends on the geographical location of the tropical cyclone. In order for it to form, it needs water in the atmosphere. If the sea surface temperature is at least 26.5°C (80°F), then enough water will get into the atmosphere for the hurricane to form. It also needs to be at least 5° away from the equator. As the warm water rises, it eventually cools down and forms a cloud as well as release heat. As the warm air rises, it leaves a low pressure area near the surface of the sea. The air from places nearby with a higher pressure area go towards the low pressure area, which warms and rises the water. This cycle repeats many times. The Earth spinning causes the path the air travels to curve, specifically counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere. This is called the Coriolis effect, which is what allows the tropical cyclone to spin. The heat from the ocean gives the rotating air energy, which causes the wind speeds to increase. Once it reaches 63 km/h (39 mph), it is considered a tropical storm. Once it reaches 119 km/h (74 mph), then it is considered a tropical cyclone.
How do you prepare for this? All you can really do in advance is stock up on things. If you really are terrified, the only other prep is to move to an area that is not vulnerable to tropical cyclones, but this is not always possible for everybody.
Now let’s talk about surviving it. First, listen to a radio if you have one. By this I don’t mean you need to listen to music to survive, but listen to NOAA Weather Radio. They will keep you up-to-date on any information you may need to know, including things like when it is safe to go outside. If local officials tell you to do anything, listen to them. If possible, go to a storm shelter, but if you are at your house you can just go to the highest level in your house. Do not go to somewhere that water could trap you (e.g. a closed attic). Lastly, stay as far away from the water as you can.
Now you have a basic idea on dealing with tropical cyclone. The exact method depends on things like your location and what your house is like and where you are when the tropical cyclone hits, but this is a general guideline.
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