Surge Myths

Florida Keys Hurricane Guide 2009

Jon Rizzo, Warning Coordination Meteorologist (Key West) busts the myths associated with storm surge in the Florida Keys.

Myth: Storm surge is the highest only during high winds and weather.

Fact: Many times, the surge can occur after the highest winds and storm have passed. During Hurricane Rita(2005), the high tide was after the storm made its closest approach – four hours after the storm passed Key West. Hurricane Wilma(2005) actually outran its surge. Just because the weather is not bad, does not mean the surge is not coming. The astronomical tide may cause the water to rise.

Myth: Storm surge does not occur on the Gulf side of the Keys.

Fact: In the Keys, storm surge passing through the Florida Straights can cause a greater surge on the Atlantic, whereas a storm passing north can cause bayside flooding. A storm crossing directly over the Keys can produce a surge on either side at different times.

Myth: The reef provides protection from storm surge.

Fact: While the reef does keep large swells and breaking waves from reaching the shore, it does not inhibit the rise of water due to storm surge.

Myth: Storm surge and storm tide are the same thing.

Fact: Storm surge is the rise in water due to the winds of the hurricane blowing towards shore. Storm tide is the actual level of the water including the astronomical tide, so it is the actual expected water level above sea level.