Storms Flashcards
How do tropical storms develop?
They develop over warm water as warm, moist air rises and condenses, it releases energy that increases wind speed
What are the necessary conditions for a tropical storm?
A disturbance near the sea surface that triggers the storm e.g. an area of low pressure
Sea water that’s 27°C to 50m
A convergence of air in the lower atmosphere as it cuases warm air to rise
Why do tropical storms lose strength as they pass over land?
Their supply of warm, moist air is cut off
Why do tropical storms move away from the equator?
Coriolis Effect
How large are tropical storms?
Hundreds of kilometers wide and usually last 7-14 days
What is the eye?
An area of very low pressure in the middle of the storm
Strong winds are caused by air circling around the eye wall
Why does the cloud extend for a long distance around the eye?
Near the top of the storm, there is an outflow of moisture laiden air which causes the cloud to extend.
What does the Saffir Simpson Scale measure?
Classifies storms by wind speed
It estimates how much damage a storm will do
What his the highest level on the Saffir Simpson Scale?
5
250km/h +
What is the lowest level on the Saffir Simpson Scale?
1
120-150km/h
How many tropical stroms happen annually?
Over 100 but some never reach land
Why are satellite images useful in the hazard management cycle of tropical storms?
They can be predicted and subsequently tracked to mitigate the risk via processes such as evacuation
What are the hazards of tropical storms?
High winds
Storm surges
Heavy rain
Flooding
Landslides
What are the social impacts of storm hazards?
Deaths
Injuries
Homelessness
Spread of diseases
Food shortages
Water contamination
What are the economic impacts of storm hazards
Cost of rebuilding
Damage to businesses and infrastructure
What are the political impacts of storm hazards?
Conflict and unrest
Opportunity cost of spending on repairs
What are the environmental impacts of storm hazards?
Environments polluted
Beaches eroded
landslides can block water courses
What are the short-term responses to storm hazards?
Evacuation
What are the long-term responses to storm hazards?
Prevention e.g. not building in high risk areas
Preparedness e.g. education
Adaption e.g. flood defences on rivers and building with reinforced concrete
