The Hurricane Factor

Be Prepared

It only takes one storm to change your life. The best way to stay safe is to assess your risk and be prepared!

How well do you know your weather? The News 12 Storm Watch Team has created a Weather Academy to prepare you for the upcoming hurricane season. Below is a comprehensive look at the tools we use to shape our forecasts and help you get through a storm safely.

The Hurricane Factor

Historic storms have taken a personal and economic toll across the tri-state - power outages, destruction, devastating flooding and even the loss of loved ones. We share personal stories from those who have been directly impacted ahead of what's expected to be a very active hurricane season.

VIDEO: Watch 'The Hurricane Factor' Special:

Structure and Anatomy of a Hurricane

Rich Hoffman shows you how storm forms and a look at the eye.

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Hurricane Impacts

Steve Teeling shows you five dangerous impacts a hurricane can have on an area.

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By the Numbers

Justin Godynick breaks down hurricane categories and how they are defined.

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Falling Tree Danger

Darryl Green shows you just how dangerous trees can be in a major storm.

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Explaining the Cone

James Gregorio tells you what the 'Cone of Uncertainty' is and how it helps as a storm approaches.

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Weather Models: Explained

Allan Nosoff shows you the differences in the major weather models.

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Zonecast Quadrants

Mike Rizzo shows you the four impact zones of a tropical cyclone.

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El Niño and La Niña

Sam Augeri shows you how El Niño and La Niña affect the Tropical Atlantic and our hurricane season.

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Climate Change

Michele Powers shows you how climate change is affecting hurricanes.

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Hurricane Facts

Jonathan Cubit highlights hurricane names and how they’ve become simpler.

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Tropical Alerts

Hope Osemwenkhae explains the difference between a watch and warning.

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Tropical Trivia

Meredith Garofalo shows you interesting facts about tropical systems.

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Tropical Symbols

Addison Green breaks down the symbols used on maps during the tropical season.

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Origin Stories

Matt Hammer explains where most storms originate before heading north.

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Resources

Keep these links handy to help you stay prepared for severe weather:

10 tips to help you stay safe before, during and after a storm

American Red Cross

CDC Center for Preparedness and Response