US Hurricanes Quiz
Gulf/Atlantic hurricane geography, impacts, seasons (10 questions).
US Hurricanes Quiz: Quick Study Notes
Hurricanes are massive tropical cyclones that act as Earth’s heat engines, transferring thermal energy from the tropics toward the poles. For the United States, the Atlantic basin season brings the risk of wind, rain, and surge to the Gulf and East Coasts.
Key Takeaways
- Florida has the highest probability of landfall in the US due to its extensive coastline and geographic position.
- The “Right-Front Quadrant” is the most dangerous part of a hurricane in the Northern Hemisphere due to additive wind speeds.
- Hurricanes weaken over land because they lose their source of heat and moisture (warm ocean water).
- The Bermuda High is a high-pressure system that steers storms across the Atlantic toward the US.
- The US West Coast is rarely hit due to cold California Current waters that kill tropical development.
What is the difference between a Hurricane and a Typhoon?
Biologically they are the same weather phenomenon (Tropical Cyclones). “Hurricane” is used in the North Atlantic and Northeast Pacific, while “Typhoon” is used in the Northwest Pacific.
When is the peak of the hurricane season?
The statistical peak of the Atlantic hurricane season is September 10th, when ocean temperatures are warmest and wind shear is typically low.
What is the “Eye Wall” of a hurricane?
The eye wall is the ring of towering thunderstorms immediately surrounding the calm eye. It contains the storm’s strongest winds and heaviest rains.
How are hurricanes named?
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) maintains six rotating lists of names. If a storm is particularly deadly or costly, its name is retired and replaced.
What constitutes a “Major Hurricane”?
A hurricane is considered “Major” when it reaches Category 3 status or higher on the Saffir-Simpson scale, meaning sustained winds of at least 111 mph (178 km/h).
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