Severe Weather Pre-Assessment

Which of the following storms produces lightning, thunder, rain, and sometimes hail, and is accompanied by strong winds and dark clouds?

• thunderstorm

• tornado

• hurricane

• blizzard

Answer explanation

A thunderstorm includes thick clouds, heavy rain or hail, lightning, thunder, and strong winds.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

Which of the following storms is described by swirling wind up to 300 mph and causes lots of damage?

• thunderstorm

• tornado

• hurricane

• blizzard

Answer explanation

A tornado is a violent, rotating storm with winds that can reach up to 300 miles per hour. These extremely high winds are capable of causing extensive damage.

Which severe weather happens when there is a lot of heavy rain falling in a short amount of time?

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Answer explanation

Flash Floods happen when heavy rain falls faster than the ground can absorb it.

This makes the level of water higher and higher until a flash flood results.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

Why is it important to have a plan for severe weather, like a thunderstorm or a tornado? Can you explain what your plan would include and why each part is important?

Answer explanation

There are many options for a good emergency weather plan, but most should/will include:

• Radio or way to keep up with weather

• Having a designated safe place in the home for all family members

• Essentials stored near safe place at all times (non-perishable foods/snacks, water)

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-2

NGSS.MS-ETS1-1

What are TWO tips for severe weather from the video?

Why is it important to practice these tips?

Answer explanation

There are many tips to prepare!

• Create a safety plan & practice it with family

• Find the safest place in your home (away from windows, restroom, hallway, basement, etc)

• Have a sturdy and safe place to go if your home is not secure enough.

Hurricanes form in the ocean.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

It's True!

Hurricanes begin to form in the ocean over warm waters. So, hurricanes are like big spinning storms that form when the ocean is warm and the winds are just right!

How would a drought best be described?

• A drought is a prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall.
• A drought is a seasonal change in temperature.
• A drought is a type of flood.
• A drought is a sudden increase in rainfall.

Answer explanation

A drought is a lack or insufficient amount of rain for a long period of time.

Drought can cause:

• Crop damage

• Water shortages

• Lack of soil moisture

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

How could a blizzard best be described?

• A blizzard is a light snowfall with warm temperatures.
• A blizzard is a rainstorm with high humidity.
• A blizzard is a sunny day with no precipitation.
• A blizzard is a severe snowstorm with strong winds and low visibility.

Answer explanation

A blizzard is a dangerous winter storm that combines with high winds and blowing snow, making it hard to see.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5