Hurricane Wanna-be’s … Tropical Storms Can Be Destructive Too

Ever since Hurricane Katrina wrought its destructive force on New Orleans, the news has been full of articles and commentators that speak of the destructive force of hurricanes.  What is lost at times is the fact that the very precursors to such a hurricane – tropical storms – can be destructive too! Essentially, the moist heat of the tropical atmosphere, which may have water vapors compressing or condensing, causes a tropical storm. Considered by some meteorologists to be hurricane wanna’be’s, it is still astonishing that many underestimate the destructive force these tropical storms can have.

Thus far, tropical storms have been shown to be the causing agents of storm surges, torrential rains, and extremely strong winds. Add to this the flooding that comes in their wake, it is not surprising that those who are affected by them realize their destructive powers. Here is a brief glimpse at some of the tropical storms that have wreaked havoc in their own rights.

Tropical Storm Allison hit Houston, Texas, as well as a host of other cities on June 5, 2001. For about two days, rainfall was almost constant. As the storm moved on, it continued to levy pounding rain on other areas, such as Harries County, which was inundated with flooding rains until about June 9.  By the time the rains stopped, it was estimated that more than 40,000 were flooded, and some were beyond repair.

Tropical Storm Isidore came ashore on September 26, 2002 in Louisiana. Fortunately, the population was prepared and even though the rains and rising tides caused some flooding, the clean-up was swift and life returned to normal quickly.

Sometimes the tropical storms are simply a precursor to a hurricane that is following closely on the heels of the storm.  Take for example Tropical Storm Bonnie and Hurricane Charley. In this one-two punch, the first storm brings a lot of rain and flooding, while the hurricane drives the destructive forces even further inland.

The destructive forces of tropical storms are sadly quite often underestimated – in part because they form over the open seas and it is therefore easy to assume that they will remain there.  Another reason why not much preparation is forthcoming when a tropical storm is forming is the fact that more often than not, the storm will dissipate long before it reaches the shorelines.  Consider the news photographs of spectators lining the shores, waiting and watching for the storm clouds to roll in and begin pounding the beaches and later on the inland areas with rain.  Sometimes these observers are not deterred when the rain starts, but they will continue to stand and watch, even when the waves are beginning to come in, threatening to overtake their stations.  Perhaps it is still the notion that a tropical storm is not the same as a full-blown hurricane, or that the worst that could happen is some rain and a bit of flooding. 

Very often the flooding is underestimated. The amount of money that is lost yearly on account of water entering homes is astronomical, and yet with a bit of preparation, the worst of the damage could be abated. For example, did you know that if you keep your ears open and listen to the flood warning, you would have ample time to move your valuables, such as photos and memorabilia, to higher ground?  These items are irreplaceable and so many memories are lost every year simply because early warnings were not heeded. In addition to the foregoing, be prepared with some basic emergency supplies, food, and drinking water.  Being properly prepared will ensure that the next tropical storm will not cost you an arm and a leg!

 

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