week 2 Flashcards
What is a typhoon?
A typhoon, also known as a tropical cyclone, is a system of thunderstorms moving in a circular direction. Typhoons frequently visit the Philippines due to its location in the tropics.
How are tropical cyclones classified?
Based on wind speed, tropical cyclones are classified as tropical depression, tropical storm, or typhoon.
What happens to the category of a tropical cyclone as wind speeds change?
The category is upgraded or downgraded based on whether the wind speeds strengthen or weaken.
What does the Yellow Rainfall Warning Icon signify?
Advisory - Community AWARENESS: Flooding is POSSIBLE in low-lying areas and near river channels.
What does the Orange Rainfall Warning Icon signify?
Alert - Community PREPAREDNESS: Flooding is THREATENING in low-lying areas and near river channels.
What does the Red Rainfall Warning Icon signify?
Emergency - Community RESPONSE: SEVERE Flooding is EXPECTED; take necessary precautionary measures.
Name one effect of a tropical cyclone.
Strong winds (squalls), which can lead to loss of lives and property damage near landfall.
How do tornadoes form during tropical cyclones?
Tornadoes are violent, whirling winds accompanied by a funnel-shaped cloud, with wind speeds around 64-116 kph in weaker cases.
How can rainfall during a tropical cyclone be both beneficial and harmful?
It can meet water needs but also cause harmful flooding if too much rain falls.
What is a storm surge?
A storm surge is an abnormal rise of water due to a tropical cyclone, which is especially destructive in coastal areas with low-lying terrain.
Why is the Philippines prone to typhoons?
Due to its geographic location in the Pacific Typhoon Belt, near the equator with warm ocean waters, and within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) where around 20 typhoons enter annually.
How do landforms affect typhoons within the PAR?
Landforms can alter wind directions, disrupting the spin and strength of a typhoon.
How do bodies of water affect typhoons within the PAR?
Warm bodies of water fuel typhoons by increasing wind speed, while cold water decreases their energy.
