What is a hurricane?  According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), a hurricane is a tropical storm with winds that have reached a constant speed of 74 miles or more. Hurricane winds blow in a large spiral around a relative calm center known as the “eye.” The “eye” is generally 20 to 30 miles wide, and the storm may extend outward 400 miles. As a hurricane approaches, the skies will begin to darken and winds will grow in strength. As a hurricane nears land, it can bring torrential rains, high winds, and storm surges. A single hurricane can last for more than two weeks over open waters and can run a path across the entire length of the eastern seaboard. August and September are peak months during the hurricane season that lasts from June 1 through November 30.

Where do I go in case of a hurricane?   St. Mary's Medical Center is not a hurricane shelter. Contact emergency management at (561) 712-6400 for locations near you. Designated areas are open to the public throughout the storm warning. Choose two or three shelters closest to you. Shelter openings depend upon storm direction, intensity and other factors. Some shelters fill up quicker than others. No pets are allowed. You must bring your own food, sleeping bags, pillows, diapers, toys and anything else that you may need during the storm.

How do I qualify for a special needs shelter?   Individuals seeking placement in a special needs shelter should call the Palm Beach County Office of Emergency Management, and request a Special Care Unit form at 561-712-6400. To qualify, this person must be an insulin dependent diabetic requiring supervisory care or oxygen-dependent requiring electricity. Eligible patients must bring personal medical supplies, including oxygen and special foods in a closed container sufficient for a two-day stay.

Telephone numbers you will need to know:  

American Red Cross:

 825 Fern Street, West Palm Beach   

(561) 833-7711 or (800) 833-0599

5820 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton 

(561) 994-2060

Emergency Management Office:  

20 South Military Trail, West Palm Beach, FL

(561) 712-6400  

Questions About St. Mary's hurricane preparedness plan?  If you are a member of the media and have questions relating to St. Mary Medical Center's hurricane preparedness plan, contact Julia Smith, Marketing Manager, 561-840-6131.