More than half of the U.S. population lives within 50 miles of a coast – and coastal populations are increasing.  Many of these areas, especially the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, will be in the direct path of hurricanes.

The USGS and its partners have studied hurricanes and hurricane-related impacts for decades. One of the primary missions of the USGS is to provide the science and real-time information that helps reduce the vulnerability of the people and areas most at risk from natural hazards. USGS research and analysis supports the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, which is responsible for monitoring and issuing warnings for hurricanes and tropical storms.  We also work closely with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and resource and emergency managers to assist communities in planning and responding to storm events.

We are pleased to provide a “one-stop” USGS hurricane Web site where the public can access important storm information such as flood levels near your home; pictures of the coastline before and after the storm; information on the timing, extent and magnitude of storm tide; and much more.

USGS science makes a real difference in peoples’ lives. It assists in rescue response, helps warn about flood dangers, analyzes coastal change, and provides decision makers with tools necessary to make informed choices.

I encourage each of you to explore this website and share it with your colleagues and friends.

USGS Storm Team (password required)