Notes on Hurricane Formation and the 1900 Galveston Disaster

Hurricane Formation and Characteristics

• Hurricanes form in tropical zones with warm waters; convection occurs, creating thunderstorms.
• A hurricane can span hundreds of miles and acts like an engine with upper-level winds pulling air away.
• Key components:
  • Rain bands spiral around the storm's center.
  • The eye can range from 5 to over 100 miles, with low pressure causing water to rise and contribute to storm surge.
• Storm categories:
  • Tropical Storm: Sustained winds of 39 mph.
  • Hurricane: Sustained winds of 74 mph or more.

Impact of Landfall on Hurricanes

• Hurricanes weaken upon landfall due to loss of energy (warm ocean waters).
• Friction increases turbulence but may slow surface winds.

Naming and Identification of Hurricanes

• Meteorologists name hurricanes; women's names were used initially, but men’s names have been included since 1979.
• Hurricane season: June 1 - November 30; peak months are August to October.
• Different names in various regions: Typhoons (west of the International Date Line), Tropical Cyclones (in the Indian Ocean).

1900 Galveston Hurricane: Initial Reports

• September 8, 1900: Early signs were misleading; barometer reading fell significantly as storms developed.
• Citizens advised to evacuate to safer areas as winds reached 120 mph.

Personal Accounts and Reactions in the Storm

• Isaac Cline's efforts to assist neighbors while facing rising waters and hazardous conditions.
• Difficult decisions made during the storm – many suffered from flying debris during attempts to escape.

Media and Public Response

• The New York Times' coverage reflected uncertainties post-hurricane due to lack of communication.

Government Changes Post-Disaster

• Galveston adopted the "Galveston Plan" with a City Commission to manage rebuilding efforts.
• Effectiveness during crises due to proper governance was questioned.

Long-term Impacts on Galveston

• Despite recovery efforts, Galveston never returned to previous prosperity levels.
• Construction of a three-mile concrete sea wall in 1902 aimed to protect against future storms.
• Extended debates on the sea wall's environmental impact versus safety benefits.

Reflections on Natural Disasters

• Post-Hurricane Rita observation showed the sea wall's effectiveness; buildings largely spared from significant damage.
• Discussion on human control over natural disasters and their socio-economic impacts continues.