Instructions
Read the following story about how hurricanes form and then answer the questions below.
A hurricane begins as a weather disturbance over warm ocean waters, typically when the temperature reaches at least 80°F (27°C). The warm water heats the air above it, causing the air to rise. As the warm air rises, it creates a low-pressure area below, allowing cooler air to move in. This process continues as long as the water remains warm.
As the warm, moist air rises, it cools and condenses, forming clouds and releasing heat. This release of heat warms the surrounding air, causing it to rise as well. As more air is drawn into the system, it begins to spin due to the rotation of the Earth, a phenomenon known as the Coriolis effect. The spinning motion helps to organize the storm and can develop it into a tropical depression, then a tropical storm, and finally a hurricane if sustained winds reach 74 miles per hour (119 kilometers per hour).
Hurricanes are classified into categories based on their wind speeds, with Category 1 being the least severe and Category 5 being the most severe. They are powerful storms that can lead to significant damage through strong winds, heavy rain, and storm surges.
Questions
1. What temperature does the ocean water need to reach for a hurricane to form?
2. What happens to the air above the warm ocean water as it gets heated?
3. Explain the Coriolis effect in your own words.
4. What are the categories of hurricanes based on wind speed?
5. Why are hurricanes considered powerful storms?