Tropical Storm Earl: The Evolution of a Hurricane
August 30, 2010
On August 24th, Tropical Depression Seven reached sustained winds of 40 mph, prompting the National Hurricane Center to designate it a tropical storm. Thus, Earl became the fifth named storm of the 2010 Atlantic hurricane season. Out in the Pacific, the weakening Frank is the third hurricane of their season.
Hurricanes begin as tropical disturbances over the ocean in areas where moist air is rising and cooling. The cooling effect forms tiny water droplets which eventually combine to make clouds. Under normal conditions, the clouds reach a saturation point, causing thunderstorms which release the water.
In a case like Earl’s, the heat energy and moisture rising into the atmosphere are so intense that multiple Cumulonimbus clouds form faster than storms can release the water. As the warm air continues to rise and cool, winds slowly begin to swirl around the low pressure near the surface of the ocean. When swirling winds become observable, a tropical disturbance is upgraded to a tropical depression.
Tropical Storm Earl is a classic case of the evolution of a hurricane. As the storm began its trek across the Atlantic, it continued to pick up moisture and wind speed. When a tropical depression reaches sustained winds of 39 mph or more, as Earl did a few days ago, the storm is designated a tropical storm.
Earl’s wind speeds have remained steady at 45 mph for the last day or so, keeping him at the Tropical Storm designation. But if he follows a typical progression of gathering strength over the warm Caribbean waters, Earl could become a category 1 hurricane with sustained winds of at least 74 mph.
When a storm reaches hurricane status, meteorologists can identify what’s known as the “eye” of the storm. This is the area where the low pressure is concentrated. The smaller eye, the greater he wind speed. Earl’s eye is still relatively large. But if the storm system tightens up there will be a noticeably smaller eye with higher wind speeds.
The life of a hurricane can range anywhere between three and fourteen days. Earl is in his third day as of this writing, but it’s still too early to tell what will happen. If he turns north before reaching Bermuda, Earl will probably fall apart with little consequence. But if the storm tracks more to the west, it still has the potential to impact the southern U.S. coast.
Flood Disaster Cleanup Should Begin Immediately
August 23, 2010
Flooding can occur as a result of many different things. Storms that bring heavy downpours of rain and quickly melting snow can leave the ground unable to absorb the water, which can then pour into your basement. In other cases, faulty plumbing or a malfunctioning water heater can result in your home having inches of water standing on the floors. Homeowners living in cold climates run the risk of having water pipes freezing and bursting which can spray gallons and gallons of water into the house, damaging everything in the area.
If you have become an unfortunate victim of a flood, there are some things to keep in mind in order to minimize the damage. In the case of a plumbing failure, it is imperative to call in a licensed plumber so that the problem can be remedied. In the case of a weather-related flood, the home insurance provider should be called to see if there is a policy in place which covers the damage. Regular homeowner’s insurance does not cover weather related flood damage but many homeowners do carry flood insurance, so it is always best to call the insurer to see if you are covered or not. Renters should contact the landlord and inquire as to whether or not flood damage is covered.
Once the storm is over or the plumbing problem fixed, it is time to begin the cleanup process. In the case that extensive damage was done, it is best to contact a flood disaster cleanup company because time is working against you. Mold can begin its devastating growth within 24 to 48 hours following a flood, so it is very important the the area be cleaned and dried quickly. A flood damage restoration company will arrive on the scene shortly after being contacted so that the cleanup efforts begin quickly.
It is a good idea to take a few minutes to document the damage. Take photographs and videotape of every area in the home that has been breached by water. Be sure to take photos of any and all belongings that are wet. This will ensure that you will be compensated fully by your insurance (if you have it) and can even pave the way for you to receive disaster relief from the federal government in the case of weather related flooding. If there are electrical issues to deal with, call a local electrician so he can come and check your home’s electrical system and any appliances that have stood in water.
