This morning. the center of Hurricane Irene was located near latitude 25.5 north, longitude 76.5 west. Irene is moving toward the northwest near 13 mph. A turn toward the north-northwest is expected today, followed by a turn toward the north by early Friday. Irene is forecast to continue to move over the northwestern Bahamas today and pass well offshore of the east coast of central and north Florida tonight and early Friday. Maximum sustained winds are near 115 mph, with higher gusts. Irene is a Category Three hurricane. Some strengthening is expected today and tonight. A Hurricane Watch is in effect for north of Surf City, N.C., to the N.C.-Va. border, including the Pamlico, Albemarle and Currituck Sounds. A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for north of Edisto Beach, S.C., to Surf City, N.C. For storm information specific to your area in the U.S., please monitor products issued by your local NWS forecast office.
History teaches that a lack of hurricane awareness and preparation are common threads among all major hurricane disasters. By knowing your vulnerability and what actions you should take, you can reduce the effects of a hurricane disaster
Hurricane hazards come in many forms, including storm surge, high winds, tornadoes, and flooding. This means it is important for your family to have a plan that includes all of these hazards. Download the Tropical Cyclone Preparedness Guide for more information. But remember, this is only a guide. The first and most important thing anyone should do when facing a hurricane threat is to use common sense.