Hazards associated with tropical storms

What can strong winds do?

Tear off roofs, break windows and damage communication networks.

What can happen to debris in strong winds?

Can become flying missiles. On roads this can cause transport disruption.

What else can strong winds cause?

Can damage power lines, often leading to widespread electricity cuts and even fires.

How can tropical storms cause coastal flooding?

Warm, humid air can generate torrential rainfall, often in excess of 200mm.

It triggers flash flooding at coasts.

How can coastal flooding take place due to urbanisation?

Impermeable surfaces exacerbate issue by encouraging rapid overland flow and causing flash flooding.

Do tropical storms cause river flooding?

As the storm moves inland, it gradually weakens as its moisture supply is cut off.

However, rainfall can still cause river flooding.

How did river flooding take place in August 2011?

Intense rainfall associated with Hurricane Irene caused river flooding in New Jersey, USA, resulting in evacuation of over 1 million people.

Damage est. over $1bn.