What is likely to cause the most problems when a hurricane is moving across land?

Either of the two major aspects (high winds and heavy rains) can cause damage, depending on the location.

For lowland areas, or those near bodies of water, the storm surge and overflow of streams presents a greater risk. In developed areas, the winds can blow off roofs, down trees, and in some cases tear buildings apart. The wind creates flying debris that can smash Windows and injure people.