Table of contents
Community safety first
The 2024 hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30. It’s crucial for every resident to be prepared for the possibility of a hurricane. Planning ahead and stocking up on essential supplies will greatly increase your safety and that of your loved ones in the event of a storm.
Read Cleanup before a storm: Essential tips »
Flood risk and insurance
It’s important to note that standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover losses due to flooding. The Moors is located in a low-lying geographical area, making it susceptible to flooding from major storms or hurricanes. With four lakes on the property, there’s an additional risk of overflow. Our community relies on a drainage system composed of French drains, as we do not have a sewer system.
Understanding French drains
A French drain is a subsurface drainage system consisting of a gravel-filled trench with a perforated pipe at the bottom. These drains collect water where stormwater naturally accumulates. From the surface, all you’ll see is a metal grate called a catch basin, which connects to the perforated pipe. Maintenance of this system involves cleaning the catch basins annually throughout the community.
It’s important to note that standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover losses due to flooding. The Moors is located in a low-lying geographical area, making it susceptible to flooding from major storms or hurricanes.
Street flooding
Our streets and parking lots are not designed to handle the intense rain that comes with tropical storms during the hurricane season. The limestone rock below ground acts like a sponge, but when it becomes saturated, it can’t absorb any more water. This leads to water collecting in low spots and ditches. Consequently, our streets tend to flood when we experience several inches of rain in a short period of time. Typically, standing water dissipates within 24 hours.
Safety precautions
Keep in mind the following safety tips during and after heavy rainfall:
- Six inches of water can reach the bottom of most cars, causing a loss of control and possible stalling. A foot of water can float many vehicles.
- Be cautious of animals that may have been displaced by flooding.
- Do not enter flooded structures, as they may harbor dangerous situations such as infectious organisms in floodwater, damaged power lines, etc.
- Watch where you walk. The ground may be covered with broken glass, nails, and debris that can be slippery.
Saffir-Simpson scale
| Category 1 | Winds 74–95 mph |
| Category 2 | Winds 96–110 mph |
| Category 3 | Winds 111–129 mph |
| Category 4 | Winds 130–156 mph |
| Category 5 | Winds 157 + mph |
Source: National Hurricane Center
Watches and warnings
Tropical Storm Watch: Tropical storm conditions are possible, usually within 48 hours.
Tropical Storm Warning: Tropical storm conditions are expected, usually within 36 hours.
Hurricane Watch: Hurricane conditions are possible, usually within 48 hours.
Hurricane Warning: Hurricane conditions are expected, usually within 36 hours.
Community preparedness
The Association has begun cleaning all the street drains in your neighborhood starting in June. This proactive measure is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure the community is as prepared as possible for the hurricane season.
Summary
Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, and it’s crucial for every resident to be prepared. The Moors community is particularly susceptible to flooding due to its low geographical area and the presence of four lakes. Understanding the limitations of our drainage system, which relies on French drains, and taking precautions against potential flooding are essential. Residents should familiarize themselves with the Saffir-Simpson hurricane scale and heed warnings issued by authorities. Proper preparation, including having a hurricane plan and stocking up on essential supplies, is key to ensuring safety during hurricane season.
