What does a 15 foot storm surge mean?

The depth of a storm surge is relative to the elevation of the land affected by the flooding. If Hurricane Skittlebip pushes a 15-foot storm surge inland, the water will be 15 feet deep where the coastline is at sea level.

What happens in a storm surge?

A storm surge is a rise in sea level that occurs during tropical cyclones, intense storms also known as typhoons or hurricanes. The storms produce strong winds that push the water into shore, which can lead to flooding. This makes storm surges very dangerous for coastal regions.

Where is storm surge the worst in a hurricane?

Every part of a tropical storm or hurricane is dangerous, but the dirty side typically brings the worst. The dirty side is where you’re most likely to see storm surge, extreme wind and heavier rain bands that can cause flooding and with the embedded storms that can quickly spin tornadoes.

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.

What does a 2 foot storm surge mean?

high tide that is 2 ft. above mean sea level produces a 17 ft. storm tide. Inland Extent. Storm surge can penetrate well inland from the coastline.

Is storm surge before or after hurricane?

Storm surge is water from the ocean that is pushed toward the shore by the force of the winds swirling around the hurricane. This advancing surge combines with the normal tides and can increase the water level by 30 feet or more. Storm surge combined with waves can cause extensive damage.

Which best describes a storm surge?

Storm surge is the abnormal rise in seawater level during a storm, measured as the height of the water above the normal predicted astronomical tide. The surge is caused primarily by a storm’s winds pushing water onshore.

How long does a storm surge last?

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 or more above normal sea level. With powerful waves on top of it, a hurricane’s storm surge can cause catastrophic damage.

What should you do during a storm surge?

Stay inside where you are protected from the water. It’s best to be on the downwind side of the house, away from windows. Monitor the storm’s progress and listen for warnings or instructions from local officials.