AMU Homeland Security Intelligence

Category 5 Hurricane Patricia Alert: Strongest Hurricane in History

By James Thompson
Contributor, In Homeland Security

Category 5 Hurricane Patricia recently produced 200 mph winds, making it the most powerful storm event on record in the Western Hemisphere, and the lowest pressure rating of any hurricane ever recorded according to The Weather Channel.

With an expected 30-foot Pacific storm surge along the southern Manzanillo to Puerto Vallarta region of the “Mexican Riviera,” the potential for widespread catastrophic destruction is expected to rise as the dangerous storm makes landfall over the weekend. Additional sustained rain, flash flooding and mudslides may contribute to the developing and dangerous situation that’s developing.

The Weather Channel describes an “Exceptionally Dangerous Situation in Mexico” currently developing:

“In addition to its unprecedented 200-mph (320-kph) sustained winds earlier Friday, Hurricane Patricia now holds the record for lowest pressure in any hurricane on record. With a minimum central pressure of 880 millibars (25.99 inches of mercury) at the 4 a.m. CDT advisory, Patricia broke the record of 882 millibars set by Wilma almost exactly 10 years ago.”

—Reported by The Weather Channel’s Hurricane Central (10/23 5:02 p.m. EST)

First Responder Update: Prepare with FEMA’s 5 Disaster Prep Hacks

As Hurricane Patricia makes landfall in Mexico and authorities work to evacuate and mitigate risks to those living in the area, it is good reminder for U.S. residents living in hurricane zones to assess their plan if a disaster strikes—especially considering the hurricane season doesn’t end until Nov. 30 according to the National Hurricane Center. In September, the Federal Emergency Management Agency published 5 disaster hacks. Here’s a quick summary:

  1. Build a supply kit
  2. Get and stay connected with loved ones
  3. Download FEMA’s App and make your smartphone a lifesaving tool
  4. Learn about your area’s specific hazards (e.g., do you live in a flood zone?)
  5. Learn risk reduction techniques by safeguarding your home

Many U.S. citizens may not be aware that since 2003, FEMA is a federal agency of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, with a central mission of coordinating disaster response and resources throughout all 50 states and territories. To view the complete hack list published by FEMA, visit “Five Disaster Prep Hacks You Need to Know.”

 

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