Hurricane Center rolls out storm surge forecast maps

The director of the National Hurricane Center tells News 96.5 that people living on the coast of Florida and other states affected by the Atlantic hurricane season shouldn't only rely on a storm's wind speed in deciding whether to evacuate.

"There's a new storm surge graphic we are going to be experimenting with this year," said Dr. Richard Knabb.

It will show in colors which areas are likely to suffer major damage from water rushing over land, and which are less likely to be hard hit.

Combining that information with storm speed and strength will keep loss of life to a minimum, even in a catastrophe, it's hoped.

"It comes down to following evacuation instructions from local officials, " Knabb added.

The storm surge map will be issued when a hurricane or tropical storm watch is first issued. The map can be changed every six hours as conditions warrant.

It will not depict any freshwater flooding expected from rainfall.

Officials with FEMA and NOAA will hold a briefing at the National Hurricane Conference at the Orlando Hilton on Wednesday.