Severe Weather Quiz

What is the primary condition for the formation of thunderstorms?

• High-pressure systems

• Clear skies

• Warm, moist air

• Cold, dry air

What is a squall line in the context of thunderstorms?

• A line of thunderstorms ahead of a front

• A type of precipitation

• A type of cloud formation

• A measurement of wind speed

How is lightning formed within a thundercloud?

• By the rotation of the cloud

• By the collision of larger and smaller particles

• By the evaporation of water droplets

• By the collision of warm and cold air

What causes the sound of thunder?

• The expansion of heated air

• The movement of rain

• The rotation of the earth

• The collision of clouds

What is a mesocyclone in the context of tornadoes?

• A measurement of wind speed

• A type of precipitation

• A spinning updraft

• A type of cloud

Where do tornadoes most commonly occur in the United States?

• In Tornado Alley

• Along the East Coast

• In the Pacific Northwest

• In the Rocky Mountains

What is the minimum wind speed required for a storm to be classified as a hurricane?

• 50 miles per hour

• 60 miles per hour

• 90 miles per hour

• 74 miles per hour

What effect causes hurricanes to rotate?

• The Coriolis effect

• The Doppler effect

• The greenhouse effect

• The butterfly effect

What is a storm surge?

• A rise in sea level due to strong winds

• A type of precipitation

• A sudden increase in wind speed

• A decrease in air pressure

What are the conditions required for a storm to be classified as a blizzard?

• Winds of at least 10 mph, temperature above 32°F, light snow

• Winds of at least 35 mph, temperature under 90°F, reduced visibility

• Winds of at least 50 mph, temperature above 90°F, clear skies

• Winds of at least 20 mph, temperature under 32°F, heavy rain