STORM TRACK: March 31, 1984 (Volume 7 Issue 3)
Storm Track has received several inquiries on how to chase hurricanes. While the following won't help forecast these events, it will suggest some safety measures. Those used to tornadoes will need to plan and think differently for this kind of chase, since you're into a wholly different environment with different risks.
SAFETY AND HURRICANE STRUCTURE - Regarding your location, you should know the (1) intensity sustained winds; (2) diameter of damaging winds; and (3) direction/speed of movement. SAFETY AND THE ENVIRONMENT - If close to the coast, (1) consider the angle of landfall regarding storm surge potential; (2) find low lying areas and plot these on your road map; and (3) secure county road maps for all coastal and adjacent inland areas. It is absolutely essential to secure a topographical map, showing land contours and elevations, Using both maps will let you reach or remain on the high ground.
CHASING ADVICE - STATIONARY - If you choose to ride it out in a structure, consider the (1 construction; (2) orientation to storm winds and the coastline (is the room's view blocked); (3) proximity to coast line; (4) number of floors; (5) inner hallways versus exterior doors, for quick access to exits if structural failure begins or fire occurs; (6) type of windows; single pane (weaker) versus multi-pane (stronger); and (7) has the structure sustained other hurricanes over the years.
CHASING ADVICE - MOBILE - There is no ideal chase vehicle! A high frame, four wheel drive vehicle with good tread is better for negotiating roads that are flooded and heavily silted with sand or mud. On the other hand, a low profile vehicle provides less wind resistance to overturning and debris impact. If you have to choose, I'd go for the four wheel drive even with higher profile. Why? If the wind begins to push the vehicle sideways and you fear overturning, it can be steered into the wind or take a street closely parallel to its flow. However, all this said and done, I do know of chasers who have done quite well with a standard car and van. How? - - The key is to follow the map and always stay on the high ground. Flooding is the greatest danger. Keep a good log of road intersections and mileage between as you enter the storm. With increasing damage and small airborne missiles, road signs may begin disappearing as you go, and you must know where you are at all times! Plan your route or photographic location to avoid lumber yards, construction sites or other areas where airborne missiles could originate. Also, don't forget flash floods. Rising water can hit you from either direction in a hurricane, from ocean surge moving inland over low ground or from inland drainage moving toward the ocean, surging through small depressions and valleys. Don't risk stalling out in rising water. In short, stay in the open, on high ground, and turn into the wind.
Oh yes, look out for snakes and other wild animals. If you're on high ground, you may have company. Look down before you step out and look before moving or lifting anything on the ground. Which leads to the last bit of advice -- on what to bring with you.
EQUIPMENT - Take a snakebite kit. A basic automobile first-aid kit is recommended. You may be isolated on impassable roads when you most need this. Pack food, drink and overnight provisions. It may be sometime before you return to normal civilization. Bring extra cans of gas, if stations are closed. Bring strong tape to secure hotel/motel windows if they start to fail. Bring flashlights for night reading of maps, etc.
Finally, don't obstruct emergency vehicles and others in the proper pursuit of relief or security efforts. They'll have their hands full with major problems all at once and won't be sympathetic with your reason for being in the way or desire to go where you want. In life threatening situations like this, your needs as chasers are always secondary to the public necessity. By all means, assist others if you can. It will help our image as storm chasers and make us more welcome on repeat visits to these areas.
