Hurricane Maria - The Meteorology, and the Impact on Society

Hurricane Maria, originating as a tropical wave off Africa, rapidly intensified into a Category 5 hurricane, causing catastrophic damage in the Caribbean in 2017. It was the strongest hurricane to hit Dominica and severely impacted Puerto Rico, leading to widespread destruction, power outages, and a humanitarian crisis. The storm caused over $90 billion in damage, with thousands displaced and significant loss of life. Recovery efforts were extensive, marking one of the largest disaster relief missions in U.S. history.

What was the initial category of Hurricane Maria when it struck Dominica?

• Category 2

• Category 3

• Category 5

• Category 1

Which island did Hurricane Maria make landfall on as a Category 4 storm?

• Dominica

• Puerto Rico

• St. Croix

• Guadeloupe

What was the highest wind speed recorded in St. Croix during Hurricane Maria?

• 175 miles per hour

• 135 miles per hour

• 165 miles per hour

• 100 miles per hour

How many homes were destroyed in Dominica due to Hurricane Maria?

• Over 6,000

• Over 10,000

• Over 3,000

• Over 5,000

What was the estimated death toll in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria?

• 500 people

• 64 people

• Around 3,000 people

• 1,000 people

What percentage of utility poles were knocked down in Puerto Rico?

• 90%

• 80%

• 60%

• 50%

What was the total estimated cost of damage caused by Hurricane Maria?

• $50 billion

• $100 billion

• $70 billion

• $90 billion