Hurricane myths put lives at risk. Don't fall for these

Florida is more often affected by hurricanes than other parts of the U.S. — but oft-repeated myths about these natural disasters could leave residents underprepared for real dangers.

Why it matters: This year's season is only a week away, and according to NOAA meteorologists, it's expected to be "above normal."

Here are the facts on six hurricane misconceptions Floridians should avoid:

1. The National Hurricane Center's cone of uncertainty shows the probable track of the center of the storm, not the extent of its reach. Focusing on the center of the cone downplays the impact of a storm.
2. Some people think the intensity of a storm's winds is the main threat. In reality, water is a bigger killer, both coastal storm surges and inland flooding from heavy rains.
3. Flooding can occur anytime and anywhere intense or prolonged rain occurs, even outside evacuation zones or in flood zone X. That's especially true near a body of water; retention ponds can overflow, too.
4. The category of a storm does not indicate the scale of danger you face. The Saffir-Simpson Scale only measures maximum sustained wind speeds — not storm surge, rainfall or even the area of impact.
5. A storm's dangers don't vanish after landfall. From debris to delayed flooding to water contamination, hazards can linger for days.

6. Don't wait for bad weather to evacuate. Once a hurricane hits, roads and bridges close, and flooding can begin before it even arrives.