The formation of Hurricane Maria Flashcards
Describes the dates and development of Hurricane Maria
When did the tropical disturbance that led to Hurricane Maria form?
In mid-September 2017, when a tropical wave moved off the west coast of Africa and entered the Atlantic Ocean.
How do warm sea surface temperatures contribute to tropical cyclone formation?
Warm waters act as fuel, allowing thunderstorms to form and release latent heat, which then warms the air, causing it to rise and create a low-pressure system.
What threshold temperature is usually required for tropical cyclone formation?
Usually 26.5°C
How does wind shear affect tropical cyclones?
Wind shear can disrupt the vertical structure of a storm. Minimal wind shear allows the storm to maintain its structure and grow.
When was the disturbance classified as a tropical depression?
Around September 16.
At what wind speeds did the system get named Tropical Storm Maria?
When the system’s winds reached 39 mph on September 16.
What is rapid intensification in the context of tropical cyclones?
It is a process where a storm’s wind speeds increase dramatically in a short period.
When did Maria reach Category 5 hurricane status?
By September 18, with winds of over 160 mph.
Where and when did Hurricane Maria make its most devastating landfall?
In Puerto Rico on September 20 as a Category 4 hurricane.
What kind of damage did Maria bring upon its landfall in Puerto Rico?
Catastrophic wind damage, flooding (through rainfall and storm surge), and landslides.
How did Hurricane Maria compare to other hurricanes in the 2017 season?
Maria grew from a tropical wave into one of the most powerful and destructive hurricanes of the 2017 season due to the right combination of atmospheric and oceanic factors.
