istockphoto.com © Pali Rao

One feature that makes Atlantic beaches so appealing to sun-bathers and shell-seekers is their long, gentle slope, so different from the sharp, dramatic drop-off along much of the Pacific coast. This long gradual elevation means that a person can travel for miles inland and still be less than 10 feet above sea level.

During Atlantic hurricane season, which begins officially on May 15, anyone living or traveling on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts will want to keep their elevation in mind, because during hurricanes, storm surge is the greatest hazard to life and safety.

Storm surge refers to the water that is pushed toward the shore by the force of the winds in a hurricane. This surge of water combines with the normal tides, creating the hurricane storm tide. The combination can increase the water level enough to close roads, flood homes, erode foundations, wash out bridges, and cripple critical infrastructure. Because much of the United States’ densely populated Atlantic and Gulf Coast coastlines lie so close to sea level, the danger from storm surge is tremendous.

Here are a few precautions to take now:

• Be prepared to evacuate low-lying coastal areas. Know your evacuation routes.
• Get a hand-crank, solar, or battery-powered radio. Stay tuned to current weather advisories.
• Plan to bring in all lawn furniture, garbage cans, bicycles, and other objects that could be washed or blown away. Loose objects, driven by storm surge, can do extra damage to buildings and pose a hazard to boats.
• If you have a boat, determine where and how you will secure it.
• Don’t try to drive through flooded roadways. Use alternate routes or summon help.

When you’re prepared for hurricanes, you can enjoy all the pleasures and minimize the perils of coastal living.