Hurricanes

Front

What is a hurricane?

Back

A hurricane is a large, organized system of clouds and thunderstorms with a defined circulation pattern, characterized by strong winds and heavy rain.

Front

What wind speed must a storm reach to be classified as a hurricane?

Back

A storm officially becomes a hurricane when wind speeds reach 74 MPH.

Front

What are the main factors that can weaken a hurricane?

Back

A hurricane can weaken due to cooler air or water and when it reaches land.

Front

How does a hurricane change as it moves inland?

Back

As a hurricane moves further inland, it slows down and gets weaker.

Front

What is the scale used to classify hurricanes?

Back

Hurricanes are classified into categories ranging from Category 1 to Category 5 based on their wind speeds and potential damage.

Front

What is necessary for a hurricane to strengthen?

Back

A hurricane needs warm ocean water, wind, and water temperatures of at least 80 degrees Fahrenheit to strengthen.

Front

What is the eye of a hurricane?

Back

The eye of a hurricane is a calm, clear area at the center of the storm, surrounded by the eyewall, where the most intense winds and rain occur.

Front

What is the difference between a hurricane and a tropical storm?

Back

A tropical storm has wind speeds between 39 MPH and 73 MPH, while a hurricane has wind speeds of 74 MPH or higher.

Front

What role does the Coriolis effect play in hurricanes?

Back

The Coriolis effect causes hurricanes to rotate and helps them maintain their circular motion.

Front

What is storm surge?

Back

Storm surge is the rise in sea level that occurs during a hurricane, caused by strong winds pushing water toward the shore.