Maryland Climate & Hazards Quiz
Coastal storms, flooding risks (10 questions).
Maryland Climate & Hazards Quiz: Quick Study Notes
Maryland, with its extensive coastline along the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, is highly susceptible to various climate hazards, primarily coastal storms and flooding. Understanding these risks is crucial for residents and environmental planning. This quiz tests your knowledge on the specific challenges Maryland faces due to its unique geography and changing climate.
Key Topics
Nor’easters and hurricanes are primary drivers of severe weather events, bringing strong winds, heavy precipitation, and dangerous conditions.
A critical threat, especially in the Chesapeake Bay, where its funnel shape amplifies water levels, inundating low-lying areas.
Heavy rainfall from storms can overwhelm river systems and urban drainage, causing widespread pluvial and fluvial flooding across the state.
A long-term exacerbating factor, contributing to more frequent nuisance flooding and increasing the impact of storm-driven events.
Key Takeaways
- Maryland’s geography makes it highly vulnerable to coastal hazards.
- Nor’easters and hurricanes are the main types of impactful coastal storms.
- Storm surge is the most destructive immediate flood risk from coastal storms.
- The Chesapeake Bay’s shape amplifies storm surge effects.
- Heavy rainfall causes significant inland (pluvial and fluvial) flooding.
- Sea-level rise is increasing the frequency and severity of all coastal flooding types.
- Cities like Annapolis experience frequent tidal and nuisance flooding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main types of coastal storms affecting Maryland?
Maryland is primarily affected by Nor’easters, which are strong mid-latitude cyclones, and hurricanes or their remnants. Both can bring heavy rain, strong winds, and significant storm surge.
How does storm surge impact Maryland?
Storm surge is an abnormal rise of water generated by a storm, over and above the predicted astronomical tide. In Maryland, it can cause severe coastal flooding, inundating homes, businesses, and infrastructure, especially in low-lying areas along the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic coast.
Which areas of Maryland are most vulnerable to flooding?
Coastal communities along the Chesapeake Bay (e.g., Annapolis, parts of Baltimore, Eastern Shore counties) and the Atlantic coast (e.g., Ocean City) are highly vulnerable to storm surge and tidal flooding. Inland areas can experience significant pluvial (rainfall) and fluvial (river) flooding from heavy precipitation.
What role does sea-level rise play in Maryland’s flooding risks?
Sea-level rise is a critical exacerbating factor, elevating baseline water levels. This means that even minor storms or high tides can cause what is known as ‘nuisance flooding,’ and it intensifies the impacts of major storm surges, pushing floodwaters further inland.
What’s the difference between storm surge and rainfall flooding?
Storm surge refers to the abnormal rise of water caused by a storm’s winds pushing water ashore, primarily impacting coastal areas. Rainfall flooding (pluvial or fluvial) results from excessive precipitation overwhelming drainage systems or causing rivers to overflow, affecting both coastal and inland regions.
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