Understanding Hurricanes, Typhoons, and Cyclones

What is the main source of energy for hurricanes?

• High altitude winds

• Cold ocean currents

• Polar ice caps

• Warm ocean waters

At what wind speed does a tropical storm become a hurricane?

• 50 miles per hour

• 100 miles per hour

• 74 miles per hour

• 39 miles per hour

What is the calm center of a hurricane called?

• The core

• The eye

• The hub

• The vortex

Which scale is used to rate hurricanes?

• Richter scale

• Beaufort scale

• Fujita scale

• Saffir-Simpson scale

What is the most dangerous aspect of hurricanes?

• Storm surges and flooding

• High winds

• Hail

• Lightning

What is the term for hurricanes in the Northwest Pacific?

• Typhoons

• Tornadoes

• Monsoons

• Cyclones

Which hurricane had the strongest winds recorded?

• Hurricane Katrina

• Hurricane Wilma

• Hurricane Patricia

• Hurricane Harvey

What is the peak hurricane season in the Atlantic Ocean?

• Mid-August to late October

• June to July

• March to May

• November to December

What phenomenon can hurricanes spawn due to high winds?

• Earthquakes

• Tornadoes

• Tsunamis

• Volcanic eruptions

What is the primary factor that can increase hurricane intensity due to climate change?

• Increased ocean temperatures

• Decreased atmospheric pressure

• Decreased ocean salinity

• Increased polar ice