Hurricanes Flashcards
What is a Hurricane?
A hurricane is a large rotating severe storm with high speeds, storm surges and torrential rainfall thereby causing flooding, beach erosion and power failures. Based on wind intensity, it can be classified from a 1-5 category.
Social and Economic Consequences of Hurricanes.
Hurricanes and the floods that come with them are the most common natural hazard Caribbean people face with. The Caribbean can expect an average of three hurricanes per year, during the Atlantic Hurricane Season from June to November.
IMPACTS
-Threats to human life by flying debris, floodwaters and contamination of drinking water supply.
-Entire communities can be displaced and become depressed from being homeless.
-Disrupts the livelihood of people through the closure of the public sector and businesses.
-Persons are cut off from communication lines, roads and utilities (electricity and water) due to them being shut down.
-Destruction of parts of the environment (forests and gardens) and shortages of natural resources.
RESPONSES
-Promotion of the education of citizens and emergency personnel on how to prepare for hurricanes and their effects.
-Fostering community spirit as neighbours pull together to deal with the effects.
-Foreign aid may be sent from overseas and can be used to meet the needs of people who have become homeless or seek medical attention. Aid can come in the form of finance and expertise to assist in the reconstruction process.
