Hurricanes Paired Passage

Hurricanes form in specific regions due to certain conditions. Which of the following is a primary factor for their formation?

• High ocean temperatures

• Cold air masses

• Mountain ranges

• Desert climates

What is an “eyewall”?

• The outermost layer of a hurricane

• The calm center of a storm

• The area surrounding the eye of a storm with intense weather

• A type of eyewear used in extreme weather

Why do wind speeds of a hurricane drop as it comes inland?

• The hurricane loses access to warm ocean water.

• The hurricane encounters higher atmospheric pressure.

• The hurricane is blocked by mountains.

• The hurricane dissipates due to human activities.

Hurricanes have a season because:

• They are influenced by ocean temperatures and atmospheric conditions.

• They occur randomly throughout the year.

• They are caused by human activities.

• They are a result of volcanic eruptions.

90% of mobile homes were destroyed in south Miami because of:

• The houses weren't anchored well and weighed little

• A tornado outbreak during the hurricane

• Excessing rain lead to flooding

• Earthquake

What is a good definition of “storm surge”?

• A sudden increase in atmospheric pressure

• A rise in sea level due to atmospheric pressure changes and wind

• A type of thunderstorm

• A decrease in sea level caused by tides

What is the definition of “mudslide”?

• A type of landslide involving a large amount of water and soil

• A dessert made with chocolate and coffee

• A type of dance move

• A weather phenomenon involving strong winds

Why are hurricanes so destructive?

• Due to their high wind speeds, heavy rainfall and storm surge.

• Because they occur frequently

• They are not destructive

• They only affect coastal areas

What are 2 possible explanations for why there are more recorded category 4 and 5 hurricanes now since prior to 1980?

• Improved technology and tracking methods

• Climate change leading to more intense storms

• Increased media coverage

• Changes in oceanic patterns

Infer why it is recommended that some people board up windows prior to a hurricane’s arrival?

• To prevent water from entering the house

• To stop debris from breaking the windows

• To keep the house warm

• To reduce noise from the storm