The recipe for a hurricane requires two key ingredients: heat and moist air. In the summer and early fall, masses of air heat up over warm ocean waters and absorb moisture, creating the conditions that generate a hurricane.

The air flow in a hurricane spirals around the center, or eye, of the storm. The eye of a hurricane is deceptively tranquil, while the strongest winds and heaviest rains occur in the region surrounding the eye.

Predicting Hurricanes
Hurricanes have long been causing destruction, but deaths attributable to these storms have declined in recent years thanks to technological advances in predicting the course and intensity of hurricanes. The National Hurricane Center in Florida tracks and ranks hurricanes and tropical storms. The center uses satellite imagery, radar and weather balloons to spot conditions that could produce a hurricane. With the data gathered, computers estimate the path, strength and development of each storm. Thanks to advances in hurricane tracking, weather officials can usually provide 12 to 24 hours advance warning.

A hurricane watch is issued when a hurricane becomes a potential threat to coastal areas. If you live in the area covered by the watch, you should stay tuned to radio or television for further advisories and be ready to act quickly if a hurricane warning or evacuation order is issued.

A hurricane warning is issued when a hurricane is expected to hit a specific area within 24 hours. You should take precautions immediately. You may be advised to evacuate if you live right on the coast, in low-lying areas, in a mobile home or near a river or flood plain. If you live on high ground away from the beach, you may be safe remaining in your home. Listen for news about the severity of the storm, and heed advice from local authorities should it become necessary to evacuate.