Hurricanes

Front

What is a hurricane?

Back

A hurricane is a large, powerful storm that forms over warm ocean waters and is characterized by strong winds, heavy rain, and a rotating structure.

Front

What is the eye of a hurricane?

Back

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

Front

Why do hurricanes lose strength when they hit land?

Back

Hurricanes lose strength when they hit land because they lose their energy source, which is warm ocean water.

Front

What fuels a hurricane's strength?

Back

Warm water fuels a hurricane's strength, providing the heat and moisture needed for the storm to grow.

Front

Where do hurricanes typically form?

Back

Hurricanes typically form over warm ocean waters, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions.

Front

What is the main difference between a hurricane and a tornado?

Back

A hurricane is a large storm system that forms over water, while a tornado is a smaller, more intense storm that forms over land.

Front

What scale is used to measure hurricane intensity?

Back

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is used to measure hurricane intensity, categorizing storms from Category 1 (least severe) to Category 5 (most severe).

Front

What is storm surge?

Back

Storm surge is the rise in sea level caused by a hurricane's winds pushing water toward the shore, leading to flooding.

Front

What are the typical wind speeds of a hurricane?

Back

Hurricane wind speeds can range from 74 mph (Category 1) to over 157 mph (Category 5).

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.