Exploring the Formation of Hurricanes

Hurricanes are large storms that form over warm ocean waters near the equator. They require warm moist air and wind to develop, often originating from winds across the Atlantic Ocean. As the warm air rises, it cools and forms clouds, eventually leading to a hurricane when winds reach 74 mph. Hurricanes can cause significant damage when they hit land. Weather satellites like the GOES-R series monitor conditions and help predict hurricane paths and intensities, providing early warnings to keep people safe.

Where do hurricanes typically form?

• In polar regions

• In mountainous regions

• In tropical regions

• In desert regions

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

What temperature must the ocean be for hurricanes to form?

• 60 degrees Fahrenheit

• 70 degrees Fahrenheit

• 80 degrees Fahrenheit

• 90 degrees Fahrenheit

What is the role of wind in the formation of hurricanes?

• It cools down the ocean water

• It disperses the storm

• It prevents clouds from forming

• It helps warm water evaporate into the air

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

What type of clouds are formed from water droplets in the atmosphere?

• Cirrus clouds

• Stratus clouds

• Cumulonimbus clouds

• Nimbostratus clouds

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

At what wind speed does a storm officially become a hurricane?

• 54 miles per hour

• 64 miles per hour

• 84 miles per hour

• 74 miles per hour

How high can hurricanes be?

• 15 miles

• 20 miles

• 10 miles

• 5 miles

What happens to a hurricane once it hits land?

• It moves back to the ocean

• It runs out of warm moist air and weakens

• It stays the same

• It gains strength

How often do the GOES-R series of weather satellites scan the U.S.?

• Every 15 minutes

• Every 10 minutes

• Every 5 minutes

• Every 2 minutes