How do we measure typhoons?

What does the Saffr Simpson scale measure?

• The wind speed of the hurricane

• The power of the hurricane

• The height of the hurricane

• How close the hurricane is

Answer explanation

The Saffir-Simpson scale measures the power of a hurricane, specifically its potential damage based on wind speed. It categorizes hurricanes into five levels, reflecting their intensity and impact.

Which category on the Saffir-Simpson scale indicates the most severe hurricane?

• Category 1

• Category 3

• Category 5

• Category 2

Answer explanation

Category 5 on the Saffir-Simpson scale indicates the most severe hurricane, with wind speeds exceeding 157 mph. It represents the highest level of damage potential, making it the most dangerous category.

What is the primary factor used to classify hurricanes on the Saffir-Simpson scale?

• Rainfall amount

• Wind speed

• Storm surge height

• Temperature

Answer explanation

The Saffir-Simpson scale classifies hurricanes primarily based on wind speed. This scale categorizes storms from Category 1 to Category 5, with increasing wind speeds indicating more severe hurricanes.

At what wind speed does a tropical storm become a Category 1 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson scale?

• 39 mph

• 74 mph

• 111 mph

• 96 mph

Answer explanation

A tropical storm becomes a Category 1 hurricane when wind speeds reach 74 mph. This is the threshold defined by the Saffir-Simpson scale, which categorizes hurricanes based on their wind speed.

What is the minimum category on the Saffir-Simpson scale that can cause significant structural damage?

• Category 4

• Category 3

• Category 2

• Category 1

Answer explanation

Category 3 hurricanes can cause significant structural damage, including severe damage to roofs and walls. Categories 1 and 2 typically result in less severe impacts, while Category 4 and 5 cause catastrophic damage.

Which of the following is NOT a factor considered in the Saffir-Simpson scale?

• Storm surge height

• Wind speed

• Rainfall amount

• Central pressure

Answer explanation

The Saffir-Simpson scale measures hurricane intensity based on wind speed, storm surge height, and central pressure. Rainfall amount is not included in this scale, making it the correct answer.

How many categories are there on the Saffir-Simpson scale?

• 6

• 4

• 3

• 5

Answer explanation

The Saffir-Simpson scale categorizes hurricanes into 5 categories, ranging from Category 1 to Category 5, based on their wind speeds and potential damage. Therefore, the correct answer is 5.

What normally happens to air pressure as a typhoon approaches?

• It rises suddenly and a lot

• It drops suddenly and a lot

• It stays the same

• It depends on the storm

Answer explanation

As a typhoon approaches, the air pressure drops suddenly and significantly. This drop is due to the intense low-pressure system associated with the storm, which leads to strong winds and severe weather conditions.

The eye wall brings....

• The calmest conditions

• The most violent conditions

Answer explanation

The eye wall of a storm is characterized by the most violent conditions, including intense winds and heavy rainfall, making it the most dangerous part of a hurricane.

What is the main purpose of the Saffir-Simpson scale?

• To determine the temperature changes in a hurricane

• To measure the rainfall during a hurricane

• To classify the intensity of hurricanes

• To predict the path of a hurricane

Answer explanation

The Saffir-Simpson scale is primarily used to classify the intensity of hurricanes based on their sustained wind speeds, helping to assess potential damage and inform preparedness efforts.