Hurricanes in New York: A Surprisingly Stormy Affair
New York City: the land of dreams, yellow cabs, and... hurricanes? Yeah, you heard that right. While the Big Apple might be more synonymous with pizza and Broadway, it does have a stormy past. So, how often does this concrete jungle actually get hit by hurricanes? Let’s dive in.
New York: The Hurricane Underdog
You might be thinking, "Hurricanes? In New York? Are you crazy?" Well, not exactly. While New York isn’t a prime hurricane target like Florida or the Gulf Coast, it's definitely not immune. Think of it like that underdog sports team that always surprises everyone.
On average, hurricane winds impact the New York City area about every 19 years. That's not as often as you might think, but when they do hit, they can pack a punch. And if you're talking about a major hurricane (Category 3 or higher), we're looking at a whopping 74-year average. So, while you might want to invest in a raincoat, you probably don't need a hurricane bunker just yet.
The 1938 Hurricane: New York's Stormy Past
To give you a taste of what New York hurricanes are capable of, let's talk about the infamous 1938 Hurricane. This bad boy slammed into Long Island as a Category 3 and caused widespread devastation. It's a reminder that even though hurricanes aren't New York's specialty, they can still pack a serious punch when they do show up.
So, Should I Panic?
Calm down, New Yorker. While it's good to be prepared, there's no need to stock up on emergency supplies just yet. The chances of a major hurricane hitting New York are relatively low. But hey, it never hurts to know what to do in case of a storm.
How to prepare for a hurricane in New York:
- How to create a hurricane emergency kit: Gather essential supplies like water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit.
- How to make a hurricane evacuation plan: Determine your evacuation route, designate a meeting place for your family, and pack a go-bag with important documents and medications.
- How to protect your home from hurricane damage: Secure outdoor objects, trim trees, and install storm shutters or board up windows.
- How to stay informed during a hurricane: Monitor weather reports, follow official advisories, and charge your devices.
- How to help others after a hurricane: Volunteer your time or donate to relief efforts to support those affected by the storm.
Remember, being prepared is key, but don't let the fear of hurricanes ruin your enjoyment of the Big Apple. Just keep an eye on the sky, and enjoy all that New York has to offer!