Maps and Imagery for Hurricane Response
USGS geospatial data, tools, maps, imagery, and elevation data can aid local, state, and federal agencies in making decisions that can protect lives and property
Research Investments Support Hurricane Readiness
Equipment upgrades made with supplemental funding pays off
Historical Storm Response By Name and Year
USGS monitors and responds to hurricanes in consultation with other agencies
Hurricanes
When hurricanes threaten our coasts, the USGS provides comprehensive science and information that decision makers, emergency responders, resource managers, and communities can use to help them prepare for, cope with, and recover from a storm. Information gained from each storm continually advances our science capabilities to improve preparedness, reduce risk, and enhance our resilience.
News
Publications
U.S. Geological Survey response to Hurricane Maria flooding in Puerto Rico and characterization of peak streamflows observed September 20–22, 2017
Hurricane Maria struck the island of Puerto Rico on September 20, 2017, as a Category 4 storm. The hurricane traversed the island from southeast to northwest and produced recorded 48-hour rainfall totals of up to 30.01 inches. Estimates of the human death toll range from 2,975 to 4,645, possibly more.The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) hydrologic monitoring network sustained substantial wind and flo