If you are going to be traveling to Hawaii, it is important to know when the hurricane season is and how to be prepared. Although hurricanes do not commonly threaten the Hawaiian Islands, they do occur and can be very devastating.
The Facts
Hawaii is located in the Central Pacific. The hurricane season for the Central Pacific runs from June 1 to the end of November. Note the hurricane season for this area is the as the Atlantic Hurricane Season. In the Easter Pacific, the season begins on May 15. Most hurricane activity occurs in late August, September and early October.
Misconceptions
Many people assume that because Hawaii is located in the Central Pacific that the hurricane season is different than the Atlantic Season. They are located in a different region for the mainland United States, but the seasons for both the Atlantic region and the Central Pacific region are the same. Because hurricanes are rare in Hawaii, people mistakenly assume that Hawaii does not get hurricanes. Hawaii has gotten several direct hits from hurricanes and has the potential of getting a direct hit in the future.
History
Considerations
If you are on a Hawaiian Island and a hurricane is approaching, you should stock up on necessities such as food, water, batteries and gas. Because Hawaii is on a string of Islands, it may take longer to get assistance and supplies during a major hurricane than it would on the mainland. Be sure to stock up for at least 4 to 6 days. If you are on the coast, you should move inland and secure your house.
Significance
Because Hawaii is an island chain, a major hurricane has a significant impact. The tidal surges can become very large on the shores from a storm that is hundreds of miles away. The tidal surges have been over 20 feet high in previous storms. The mountains on the islands can also feed the hurricane winds and increase in the destruction. Locations on the top of ridges on the down slopes of mountains are the most vulnerable. The other major danger from hurricanes is long periods of rain and flash flooding. Make sure you are in a high area and pay attention to flood advisories.
By: Jennifer Gregory
Jennifer Gregory has over 14 years professional writing experience. She has traveled around the United States and Europe. Her favorite vacation was taking her children to Maui, Hawaii.Read Next 5 Articles
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