Understanding Storm Surges and Hurricanes

What is considered the most deadly component of a hurricane?

• Wind speed

• Storm surge

• Lightning

• Rainfall

Why is Florida particularly vulnerable to hurricanes?

• Its proximity to warm waters

• Its dense forests

• Its high elevation

• Its cold climate

What factor does NOT contribute to the intensity of a storm surge?

• Size of the storm

• Storm intensity

• Continental shelf

• Color of the ocean

How does the continental shelf affect storm surge?

• A steeper shelf decreases storm surge

• A deeper shelf increases storm surge

• The shelf has no effect

• A shallower shelf increases storm surge

What is a reverse storm surge?

• Storms become more intense

• Waves become larger

• Water is drawn away from the coast

• Water is pushed further inland

What is one suspected impact of climate change on hurricanes?

• Hurricanes will become less intense

• Hurricanes will move faster

• Hurricanes will increase in intensity

• Hurricanes will occur less frequently

How does climate change potentially worsen storm surges?

• By cooling ocean temperatures

• By reducing storm intensity

• By increasing sea levels

• By decreasing sea levels

What is the main source of energy for hurricanes?

• High altitude winds

• Warm ocean water

• Cold air

• Mountain ranges

What is a common misconception about hurricanes and climate change?

• Hurricanes will only occur in the tropics

• Hurricanes will stop occurring

• Hurricanes will become less intense

• Hurricanes will become more frequent

A hurricane is a very powerful storm.

• false

• true