Short Wave

How To Know If A Hurricane Is Coming For You

Aug 13, 2020
Rebecca Hersher, an NPR climate reporter, dives into the essential details of hurricane forecasting. She helps listeners decode the complexities of forecast maps, particularly the often-misunderstood cone of uncertainty. The conversation highlights urgent preparation tips and common mistakes people make when assessing hurricane threats. Hersher also emphasizes the importance of understanding flooding risks, even outside predicted areas. The discussion advocates for better communication and awareness regarding climate impacts on hurricane frequency.
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ADVICE

Understanding Hurricane Forecasts

  • Understand hurricane forecasts, they can be confusing.
  • Don't just glance at the maps; carefully consider the information.
INSIGHT

Cone of Uncertainty

  • The cone of uncertainty map shows where the hurricane's center might go, not definitively.
  • Hurricanes are vast, so effects extend beyond the cone, even if the path doesn't change.
ADVICE

Check Your Assumptions

  • Don't assume safety just because you're outside the cone on the map.
  • Consider the storm's size and potential path shifts.
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