Challenge of Natural Hazards: Weather Hazards: Tropical storms

Insolation

The amount of solar radiation (sunlight) an area receives.

Convection cell

A worldwide system of winds moving heat from the equator to the poles to reach a balance in temperature.

Albedo effect

How well different surfaces reflect sunlight back into space.

Prevailing wind

The most frequent wind direction a location experiences.

Jet streams

Strong, fast-moving wind bands found at high altitudes, just below the tropopause.

Global circulation

The movement of air across the planet in a specific pattern.

Differential heating

The uneven heating of the Earth's surface due to differences in its composition.

Coriolis Effect

The deflection or bending of the wind due to the rotational spin of the Earth.

Hadley cell

A circulation cell extending from 0-30 degrees latitude characterized by low pressure and high heat.

Ferrel cell

A circulation cell from 30-60 degrees characterized by a high pressure zone with low rainfall.

Polar cell

A high-pressure circulation cell from 60-90 degrees characterized by icy deserts and no rainfall.

Tropical storms

Areas of intense low pressure formed when warm air rises in tropical regions.

Natural Hazard

A naturally occurring event that causes death, damage, or destruction.

Deggs Model

Explains the interaction of a natural hazard with a vulnerable population leading to disaster.

Primary effects of tropical storms

The initial impacts, such as strong winds, torrential rain, and storm surges.

Secondary effects of tropical storms

Indirect impacts including flooding, landslides, and contamination of water sources.

Coriolis effect at the equator

There is no Coriolis effect at the equator.

Tropical Storm Features - The Eye

A relatively calm area at the center of the storm, usually with low winds.

Tropical Storm Features - Eye Wall

A ring of thunderstorms producing heavy rain and strong winds surrounding the eye.

Tropical Storm Features - Rainbands

Curved bands of clouds/thunderstorms spiraling away from the eye wall.

Immediate responses to a tropical storm

Actions taken in the hours/days after a storm, such as evacuation and distribution of supplies.

Long-term responses to a tropical storm

Recovery actions taken weeks/months after a storm, such as rebuilding homes and investing in protection.

Typhoon Haiyan

A deadly tropical storm that hit the Philippines on November 8, 2013, causing extensive damage.

Monitoring tropical storms

Using technology to track and predict storms to save lives and reduce damage.

Impact of Climate Change on Tropical Storms

Changes to storm frequency, intensity, and distribution due to increases in average atmospheric temperatures.

Tropical Storm Features - Storm Surge

An offshore rise of water associated with a storm, resulting in flooding along coasts.

Impact of Tropical Storms on Ecosystems

Can lead to habitat destruction, loss of biodiversity, and long-term changes in ecosystem health.

Tropical Storm Scale

A classification system used to categorize tropical storms based on their wind speeds and potential damage.

Role of Satellites in Monitoring Tropical Storms

Satellites provide imagery and data for tracking storms, predicting paths, and assessing damage.

Emergency Preparedness for Tropical Storms

Planning and actions taken by individuals and communities to reduce risks and enhance safety.

Insurance Coverage for Tropical Storm Damage

Financial protection for property owners against losses due to tropical storms.

Post-Storm Recovery Phase

The period following a storm focused on rebuilding, support services, and assessment of damages.

Storm Impact Assessment

The process of evaluating damage and recovery needs after a tropical storm.

Evacuation Plans

Pre-established routes and procedures for moving people to safety before a storm.