natural hazards Flashcards
Where do tropical storms typically occur?
Between 5° and 30° north and south of the equator
What ocean temperature is necessary for tropical storms to form?
Above 27° C
During which seasons do tropical storms generally occur?
Between summer and autumn
What is the first step in the sequence of a tropical storm?
Air is heated above warm tropical oceans
What phenomenon causes air to spin around the calm eye of a tropical storm?
Coriolis effect
What happens to a tropical storm when it meets land?
It loses its source of heat and moisture, thus losing power
True or False: Climate change is expected to lead to more frequent tropical storms.
False
What extreme weather events can cause flooding in the UK?
Rain, snow, ice, hail, drought, wind, thunderstorms, heat waves
What has been the average temperature increase in the UK since 1980?
1 degree
What were the primary effects of Typhoon Halyan in the Philippines?
- At least 6340 killed
- 314 km/hr wind speeds
- 5m Storm Surge
- 90% buildings in Tacloban destroyed
How many emergency shelters were set up immediately after Typhoon Halyan?
1,069 emergency shelters
What was the total estimated damage cost from Typhoon Halyan?
$14 Billion
What are two long-term responses to Typhoon Halyan?
- UN appeal raised $300 million
- Typhoon warning systems improved
What caused the flooding in Somerset Levels in 2014?
Wettest January on record, high tides, and storm surge
River tome and parrot weren’t dredges
How many houses were flooded during the Somerset Levels flooding?
Over 600 houses
What are two natural causes of climate change?
- Orbital changes
- Volcanic activity
What human activities contribute to greenhouse gas emissions?
- Fossil fuels
- Agriculture
- Deforestation