Hurricane / Cyclone
A hurricane is a type of tropical cyclone, the general term for all circulating weather systems over tropical waters. The hurricane moves counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere.
*Tropical Disturbance, Tropical Wave is a random mass of thunderstorms, very little, if any, organized wind circulation.
*Tropical Depression is an organized system of clouds and thunderstorms with a defined circulation and maximum sustained winds of below 39 mph (34 knots) or less.
*A Tropical Storm is an organized system of strong thunderstorms with a defined circulation and maximum sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph (34-63 knots).
*A Hurricane is an intense tropical weather system with a well defined circulation and maximum sustained winds of 74 mph (64 knots) or higher. The hurricane is categorized from 1(weakest) to 5 (strongest).
*Category 1 winds measure between 74 and 95 mph..(64-82 knots)
*Category 2 winds measure between 96 and 110 mph (83-95 knots)
*Category 3 winds measure between 111 and 130 mph. (96-113 knots)
*Category 4 sustainable winds between 131 and 155 mph. (114-135 knots)
*Category 5 Sustainable winds over 155 mph.(135 knots and above)
Many hurricanes do weaken when and if they hit Dominican Republic because of its rough terrain. But if a hurricane or Tropical storm does hit it is very devastating to the coastal areas. The obvious wind is a problem but also the rain. In the interior of the island heavy rainfall can cause mudslides and serious problems with the roads being water covered.
WARNINGS:
*HURRICANE WATCH means there is a possibility that you could experience hurricane conditions within 36 hours.
You need to prepare just to be safe. Secure the boat, make sure you have all the items in ready for securing your home and belongings. Better to be safe than sorry.
*HURRICANE WARNING means that sustained winds of at least 74 mph are expected within 24 hours or less.
If this warning has been issued people should be actively preparing for the storm. Also deciding the safest location to be during the storm.
The hurricane season in Dominican Republic usually lasts from the beginning of June to the end of November, with August and September being the months of greatest storm activity. The hotels and resorts are usually prepared incase one does strike while you are here. They will tell you what is best and evacuate you to another place if they see it is needed. In general, the island is prepared for these storms and the tourists are usually taken care of. If a hurricane has hit and you are to be vacationing here just call ahead and make sure all is still ready for your arrival.
Many of the buildings in Dominican Republic are made from blocks, cement, iron rods, sand and gravel. These materials are generally weather-resistant. There are also many buildings with tin roofs that can become deadly when they become dislodged. Also watch out for flying coconuts.
A large hurricane named Georges hit Dominican Republic on September 22, 1998. It was a category 3. The one before that was hurricane David in 1979. This was a category 5. Thus, the likelihood of getting caught in a hurricane is very small. But when a hurricane does strike there is a good chance there will be destruction. The threat of a possible approaching hurricane should always be taken seriously and all necessary precautions should be taken
