Natural Hazards and disasters flashcard

Front

Can scientists predict exactly when a natural disaster will occur?

Back

False

Answer explanation

Scientists cannot predict exactly when a natural hazard will occur due to the complex and unpredictable nature of these events. Therefore, the statement is false.

Front

Why is it beneficial to be able to predict when and where natural disasters will occur as much as possible?

Back

Communities can be notified to evacuate

Answer explanation

Predicting natural hazards allows communities to be notified to evacuate, ensuring their safety. This proactive measure can save lives and reduce injuries during events like floods, hurricanes, or wildfires.

Front

Which of the following options is NOT a natural disaster? Hurricane, Tornado, House Fire, Earthquake

Back

House Fire

Answer explanation

A house fire is caused by human activities and is not a natural event, unlike hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes, which are all natural hazards resulting from environmental processes.

Front

What is the difference between a natural hazard and a natural disaster?

Back

A hazard is what could happen, a disaster is after it impacts humans

Answer explanation

A natural hazard refers to a potential event that could cause harm, while a natural disaster occurs when that event actually impacts humans and causes damage. Thus, the correct choice highlights this distinction.

Front

What is an effect of a tsunami?

Back

flooding

Answer explanation

One effect of a tsunami is flooding, as the massive waves inundate coastal areas, causing significant damage and displacement. Other options like weathering, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions are not direct effects of a tsunami.

Front

A violently destructive windstorm occurring over land

Back

Tornado

Answer explanation

A tornado is a violently destructive windstorm that occurs over land, characterized by a rotating column of air. Unlike hurricanes, which form over water, tornadoes are specifically associated with severe thunderstorms.

Front

Collectively, the states of Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska, where tornadoes frequently occur, are all called

Back

Tornado Alley

Answer explanation

The states of Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska are collectively known as Tornado Alley due to their high frequency of tornado occurrences. This term specifically refers to this region in the central United States.

Front

Where do tornadoes begin?

Back

In severe storm clouds

Answer explanation

Tornadoes form in the clouds of severe thunderstorms, specifically in supercell storms where conditions are right for rotation and strong updrafts. This is why the correct answer is 'In the clouds of severe thunderstorms'.

Front

Mitigations or solutions for a long period of very low rainfall resulting in loss of plant and animal life, including crops

Back

Implementation of water conservation techniques

Answer explanation

A long period of low rainfall leads to drought, which causes significant loss of plant and animal life, including crops. The other options, like volcano and blizzard, do not fit this description.

Front

What is the calm area in the center of a hurricane called? (hint: what do you see with?)

Back

Eye

Answer explanation

The calm area in the center of a hurricane is called the 'eye.' It is characterized by light winds and clear skies, contrasting with the surrounding storm. The term 'eye' is fitting as it relates to what we see in the center.