Understanding Hurricanes

What makes hurricanes a natural wonder despite their destructive nature?

• Their swirling, twirling appearance

• Their lack of impact on human life

• Their small size and short duration

• Their ability to form over land

How do hurricanes differ from thunderstorms and tornadoes?

• They occur only in the winter

• They are larger and more powerful

• They form over cold ocean waters

• They are smaller and last longer

What is the calm center of a hurricane called?

• The vortex

• The spiral

• The eye

• The eyewall

What initiates the formation of a hurricane?

• High pressure systems over the ocean

• Cold air rising over land

• Strong winds from the north

• Warm ocean water heating the air above

What happens to hurricanes when they move over cooler waters or land?

• They become tornadoes

• They weaken

• They change direction

• They gain strength

Which tool is NOT used by scientists to predict hurricanes?

• Planes

• Seismographs

• Weather buoys

• Satellites

Why can hurricane predictions sometimes be inaccurate?

• Hurricanes are simple to predict

• Hurricanes are influenced by many changing factors

• Hurricanes never change direction

• Scientists lack the technology to predict hurricanes

What should you do if local officials issue an evacuation order during a hurricane?

• Wait until the storm is closer

• Evacuate immediately

• Ignore it and stay home

• Go outside to watch the storm

How are hurricanes named?

• By their size and strength

• Using a list of common names

• Based on the month they occur

• According to the region they hit

Which regions are most likely to experience hurricanes?

• Deserts and arid regions

• Regions with warm ocean waters

• Areas near the poles

• Regions with cold ocean waters