Weather And Climate Case Studies- Hurricane Katrina Flashcards
Where?
Gulf Coast, Southern USA
What?
Formed as a tropical depression over Bahamas
Moved North West, strengthened into Hurricane
When?
Formed 23rd August, struck Louisiana 29th August 2005
Why?
Area of warm ocean water, warms air above causing it to rise
Near equator
Who?
Worst affected areas-Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida, Georgia and Alabama
Impacts
1836 deaths
300,000 houses destroyed
3 million lost electricity
Water supplies polluted
Impacts
230,000 jobs lost
Forests lost
Around $300 billion cost
Ports damaged
Impacts
Habitats damaged Land/crops destroyed Flooding Beach erosion Oil spills
Responses
Warnings before storm-effective response
Response coordinated by FEMA, 80% New Orleans evacuated, helicopters/boats positioned, prepared supplies
Responses after hurricane
Emergency teams sent in,medical supplies, food etc
Search/rescue
Shelters
Charities raised over $4 billion