Natural Disasters

Front

What is a tsunami?

Back

A tsunami is a series of ocean waves caused by any large and sudden displacement of water, often due to underwater earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-2

Front

How can earthquakes under the ocean lead to tsunamis?

Back

Underwater earthquakes can displace large volumes of water, creating waves that travel across the ocean at high speeds, resulting in tsunamis when they reach coastal areas.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-2

Front

What dangers can flood waters contain after a tsunami or hurricane?

Back

Flood waters can contain dangerous debris, chemicals, and pathogens. Additionally, underground or downed power lines can electrically charge the water, posing electrocution risks.

Front

What is a funnel cloud?

Back

A funnel cloud is a rotating, funnel-shaped cloud that extends from a thunderstorm and can develop into a tornado.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

Front

What precautions should be taken before a hurricane to mitigate damage?

Back

Before a hurricane, windows and glass doors should be covered with plywood or storm shutters to prevent breakage from high winds and flying debris.

Front

What is the primary cause of hurricanes?

Back

Hurricanes are primarily caused by warm ocean waters, which provide the energy needed for the storm to develop and strengthen.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Front

What is the Saffir-Simpson scale?

Back

The Saffir-Simpson scale is a classification system for hurricanes that categorizes them from 1 to 5 based on their sustained wind speeds and potential damage.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-2

Front

What is the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning?

Back

A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes to form, while a tornado warning means a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar.

Front

What are some common signs of an impending tornado?

Back

Common signs include a dark, greenish sky, large hail, a loud roar similar to a freight train, and a visible funnel cloud.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

NGSS.MS-ESS3-2

Front

What is storm surge?

Back

Storm surge is an abnormal rise in sea level during a storm, caused by strong winds and low atmospheric pressure, leading to coastal flooding.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-2