The Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1 and continues through November 30. Hurricanes are tropical cyclones with winds that reach a constant speed of at least 74 mph and may gust to 200 mph. Their heavy bonds of spiral clouds may cover an area several hundred miles in diameter and generate torrential rains and tornadoes. The "eye," or middle of the hurricane is deceptively calm, almost free of clouds, with light winds and warm temperatures. Tropical Wave Or Disturbance A cluster of clouds and/or thunderstorms without organized circulation. Tropical Depression An organized, tropical, low-pressure system with sustained winds less than 39 mph. Tropical Storm An organized system of strong thunderstorms with defined circulation and sustained winds of 39-73 mph. Tropical Storms can quickly develop into hurricanes. Storms are named when they reach Tropical Storm strength. Hurricane An intense tropical weather system with wall defined circulation and sustained wind speed of 74 mph or greater. Storm Surge A large wall of water that builds up as a hurricane moves over the ocean. The surge can produce flooding up to 20 feet deep in places and can affect more than 100 miles of coastline. The evacuation zones are identified by their likelihood of being flooded by this rising water. Evacuation Orders This is the signal that a storm is threatening your immediate area. Local and state governments take this action to allow residents as much time as possible to get out of harms way. REMEMBER: Evacuation orders are given so that residents are clear of dangerous areas by the time tropical storm force winds arrive. They are not based on the arrival of the eye of the storm. Hurricane Watch Hurricane conditions are possible within 36 hours. Hurricane Warning Hurricane conditions are expected within 24 hours or less.