The Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico Hurricane Season extends from June 1 to November 30 each year. Basic information regarding hurricanes can be found at the Volusia County Emergency Management website.

A hurricane is a cyclonic storm which, as a unit, normally travels at about 8 to 12 miles per hour and has a small center area of relative calm with an area of high wind velocity revolving counterclockwise about this central area. Hurricane winds are defined as those having a force greater than 75 MPH. Hurricane winds have also been recorded well over 180 MPH.

A. The Performing Arts Center will serve as the headquarters (Emergency Management Center) for the implementation of this plan.

B. All personnel will evacuate the Emergency Management Center when hurricane winds reach above Category 3 strength. Classes will cease at the discretion of the VP for Academic Affairs and the President, upon notification that a storm threatens to hit the area. The campus will be closed within 24 hours of that notification. The Performing Arts Center has been designated as an approved shelter.

C. All University sponsored functions both on and off campus are cancelled.

A. A wind blowing against a building produces a positive pressure on the windward side and negative pressure, or suction, on the opposite side of the building. A common occurrence in hurricanes is the breaking of windows or opening of doors on the windward side of a building. Through such openings, the wind enters the building and creates a positive pressure on the underside of the roof or on the inner side of the wall. This force, in combination with external suction pressure, often carries off roofs or forces out the sides of buildings. It is important, therefore that, to the extent possible, all access areas be secured.

B. Electrical hazards due to downed transmission power/electrical wires are a major cause of hurricane deaths. Extreme care must be taken to avoid fallen wires.

C. Flying debris from damaged buildings and loose objects picked up and carried by the wind are responsible for storm-related injuries and much of the storm’s damage. Personnel must remain under cover during winds at hurricane velocity. It is required that all loose lumber, sheet metal, drums, pallets, outside trash containers, and any object having the potential to become a projectile be secured. Roofs of buildings in particular shall be checked and all drain heads must be cleared prior to the onset of the hurricane.

D. Damage caused by the entry of water into buildings through leaky roofs and doors, broken windows, and backed up storm drains can be expected. Sandbagging, lifting equipment, machines and supplies from floors and covering equipment will minimize lost.