Climate & Weather

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What is the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale?

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A rating system that categorizes hurricanes based on their maximum sustained wind speed, without considering storm surge, rainfall flooding, or tornadoes.

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What are onshore winds?

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Winds that blow from the water to the land, often bringing moisture and cooler temperatures.

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What are super cells?

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A type of severe thunderstorm characterized by rotating winds sustained by a prolonged updraft, which can lead to hail or tornadoes.

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What is a cyclone?

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A tropical storm that forms over the South Pacific and Indian Ocean, characterized by low pressure and strong winds.

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What is climate?

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The average weather conditions in a particular area over a long period of time.

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What is weather?

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The short-term atmospheric conditions in a specific place at a specific time, including temperature, humidity, and precipitation.

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What is a tornado?

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A rapidly rotating column of air that extends from a thunderstorm to the ground, capable of causing significant damage.

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What is a hurricane?

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A large tropical storm system with strong winds and heavy rain, typically forming over warm ocean waters.

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What is storm surge?

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An abnormal rise in sea level during a storm, caused by strong winds and low atmospheric pressure.

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What is humidity?

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The amount of water vapor present in the air, which can affect weather conditions.