Landfall in Tropical Cyclones

Introduction

When a tropical cyclone makes landfall, it brings with it powerful winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surge. These forces can cause widespread damage and loss of life. It is important to understand the risks associated with landfalling tropical cyclones and to take steps to stay safe.

What is Landfall?

Landfall is the point at which a tropical cyclone's center of circulation moves onshore. This can occur anywhere along a coastline, but it is most common in areas where the coastline is low-lying and the storm surge is high.

The Dangers of Landfall

The primary dangers associated with landfalling tropical cyclones are:

• High winds: Tropical cyclones can produce winds of up to 150 miles per hour. These winds can cause widespread damage to buildings, infrastructure, and trees.
• Heavy rainfall: Tropical cyclones can produce torrential rainfall, which can lead to flooding, landslides, and mudslides.
• Storm surge: Storm surge is a wall of water that can be as high as 20 feet. Storm surge can cause severe damage to coastal communities and can be deadly.

How to Stay Safe

If you are in an area that is threatened by a landfalling tropical cyclone, it is important to take steps to stay safe. These steps include:

• Evacuate: If you are in an area that is under a mandatory evacuation order, evacuate immediately. Do not wait until it is too late.
• Secure your home: If you are unable to evacuate, secure your home by boarding up windows and doors and bringing in loose objects.
• Stay informed: Listen to local news and weather reports to stay informed about the storm's track and intensity.
• Be prepared: Have an emergency kit that includes food, water, first aid supplies, and a battery-powered radio.

Conclusion

Landfalling tropical cyclones can be deadly storms. It is important to understand the risks associated with these storms and to take steps to stay safe. By following these tips, you can help to protect yourself, your family, and your property from the dangers of landfalling tropical cyclones.