Hurricanes

1. Which of the following is a true statement about hurricanes?

• They only affect the tropical areas

• They cannot be measured on any scientific scale

• Their winds are always above 74 miles per hour

• They cause more deaths every year than tornadoes and earthquakes

Answer explanation

Hurricanes are defined as tropical cyclones with sustained winds of at least 74 miles per hour. This makes the statement about their winds being always above 74 mph true, while the other options are incorrect.

1. Which word best describes the eye of a hurricane?

• Tranquil

• Stormy

• Windy

• Cold

Answer explanation

The eye of a hurricane is known for its calmness and clear skies, making 'tranquil' the best descriptor. In contrast, the surrounding areas are stormy and windy, highlighting the unique peacefulness at the center.

Which country would most likely be affected by a typhoon?

• The United States

• Japan

• Spain

• Brazil

Answer explanation

Japan is located in the Pacific Ocean, where typhoons frequently occur. The United States, Spain, and Brazil are less prone to typhoons, making Japan the most likely country to be affected by such storms.

What happens immediately after a hurricane makes landfall?

• It gets stronger

• It gets weaker

• Its winds pick up speed

• It starts hailing

Answer explanation

After a hurricane makes landfall, it encounters land, which disrupts its energy source from warm ocean waters. This leads to a decrease in wind speed and overall strength, making it weaker.

If you heard a hurricane warning announced over the radio, what would it mean?

• A tropical storm at sea has been upgraded to a hurricane

• A big hurricane is projected to hit land within 12 hours

• A small hurricane has been upgraded to a strong hurricane

• A big hurricane is projected to hit land within 24 hours

Answer explanation

A hurricane warning indicates that a significant hurricane is expected to make landfall within 24 hours, which is the correct choice. This warning alerts people to prepare for potential impacts.

How are hurricanes monitored?

• By a weather map

• By meterologist and satelite

• By a radar

• By the Richter scale

Answer explanation

Hurricanes are monitored primarily by meteorologists using satellites, which provide real-time data on storm formation and movement. This method is more effective than just using weather maps or radar.

How should we prepare for a hurricane?

• Canned food, water, ply wood

• Flashlight, canned food, water, and shutters

• Canned food only

• Flashlight, canned food, water, radio, shutters, and ply wood

Answer explanation

To prepare for a hurricane, it's essential to have a flashlight, canned food, water, a radio for updates, shutters for windows, and plywood for additional protection. This comprehensive list ensures safety and readiness.

Where do hurricanes mainly originate?

• Over open water, off the coast of Africa

• When rock suddenly break along a fault

• Happens in many parts of the world

• In latitude areas of warmer climates

Answer explanation

Hurricanes typically form over warm ocean waters, particularly in tropical regions. The correct choice highlights that they often develop off the coast of Africa, where conditions are favorable for their formation.

When is the hurricane season?

• June 1- November 30

• May 15- November 30

• None of the above

• All of the above

Answer explanation

The hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30. This period is recognized by meteorological organizations, making the first option the correct answer.

Without the rotation of the planet there wouldn't be a spin of winds around the eye of the hurricane.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

True. The rotation of the planet creates the Coriolis effect, which is essential for the spin of winds around the eye of a hurricane. Without this rotation, the characteristic rotation of hurricanes would not occur.