Hazardous Environments 3.7 Tropical Cyclones and their Impact

Question 1

measuring tropical cyclones (5)

Answer 1

• of the three hazards, tropical cyclone is most easily measured
• the two key aspects of tropical cyclones: rainfall and wind speed, are constantly monitored around the world by satelites and weather stations
• this weather data gives us an advantage with tropical cyclones, over volcanoes or earthquakes
• their existence and approach can be forecast with some accuracy and warnings can be given
• once windspeeds in a tropical storm reach 119 kph, it is classified as a cyclone, assessed by the Saffir-Simpson scale

Question 2

Saffir-Simpson Scale (2)

Answer 2

• used to assess whether a tropical storm is a cyclone
• the scale recognizes five categories of cyclone strength based on four features: wind speed, air pressure, storm surges and typical damage

Question 3

What are the short-term impacts of tropical cyclones? (4)

Answer 3

• PHYSICAL - the damage of property caused by high winds, heavy rainfall and storm surges along coasts
• SOCIAL - the number of people killed or injured, the disruption of communities and decline in quality of life
• ECONOMIC - the disruption and destruction of businesses, transport links and services
• ENVIRONMENTAL - landslides, soil erosion, upset ecosystem, prolonged flooding

Question 4

what are the primary impacts of tropical cyclones?

Answer 4

the direct and immediate results of high winds, torrential rain and storm surges (for example damaged buildings)

Question 5

what are the secondary impacts of tropical cyclones? (4)

Answer 5

• costs of repairing the damage
• spread of waterborne disease
• loss of homes and personal possesions
• transport lines blocked by landslides