Hazardous Earth - Dealing with tropical cyclones

Question 1

Name 3 factors which make a country more vulnerable than others to cyclones

Answer 1

(1) Physical - low-lying coastal areas e.g. the Pacific Islands
(2) Social: Poor areas often hit worst as they live crammed together in poor quality housing
(3) Rich countries have better prediction, protection and evacuation technology; poor countries have poor communications and infrastructure which makes rescue work very hard

Question 2

How do weather forecasts spot and track a cyclone

Answer 2

Satellites - forecasts can predict the track and estimate likely storm surge heights and rainfall levels

Question 3

Describe different ways countries can prepare for a tropical cyclone

Answer 3

(1) build strong brick typhoon shelters on higher ground and storm surge barriers
(2) Ensure have good evacuation systems
(3) Install sanitation systems that are above likely flood levels
(4) Build stronger schools, hospitals, and homes
(5) Provide cyclone shelters
(6) Install warning systems on mobile phones