Hurricanes are some of the strongest storms on Earth. They might look scary, but if you know how to prepare for them, you can stay safe. Let’s learn more about hurricanes and how to handle them.
A hurricane is a huge storm with winds moving at least 74 miles per hour. In the center of the storm, there’s a calm area called the “eye.” But outside the eye, the winds are very strong and dangerous. Hurricanes can bring a lot of rain, causing floods. They can be as large as 600 miles across, which is about the size of Texas!
Hurricanes form over warm ocean water that’s at least 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Warm, moist air rises from the ocean, and cooler air moves in to take its place. This cycle creates storm clouds that start to spin because of the Earth’s rotation. When the conditions are just right, a hurricane is born. This usually happens in tropical areas, between 5 to 15 degrees north and south of the equator.
In the Caribbean and the Atlantic Ocean, hurricane season starts on June 1st and ends on November 30th. During this time, it’s important to be prepared for possible storms.
Hurricanes are rated using the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. This scale helps predict how much damage a hurricane can cause:
It’s hard to predict exactly when a hurricane will hit, but you’ll usually have some warning. Here are some tips to prepare:
If you’re told to evacuate, do it! If you stay, find a safe place in your home, like a room without windows. Stay away from glass and use a battery-powered flashlight instead of candles. Keep a radio handy to listen for updates.
Wait for the official “all-clear” before leaving your shelter. Be careful of fallen trees and power lines. Check your home for damage and take photos for insurance claims. Clean up safely and throw away spoiled food.
Remember, being prepared is the best way to stay safe during a hurricane. Stay informed and take action when needed!
Using simple materials like a plastic bottle, water, and food coloring, you can create a model to simulate how a hurricane forms. Fill the bottle with water, add a few drops of food coloring, and swirl it to see the vortex. This will help you understand the spinning motion of a hurricane.
Work with your classmates to develop a hurricane safety plan for your school or home. Discuss evacuation routes, emergency supplies, and safe meeting spots. Present your plan to the class and explain why each step is important.
Use online resources or maps to track a real or hypothetical hurricane. Plot its path and predict where it might go next. Discuss how meteorologists use data to forecast hurricanes and why this information is crucial for safety.
In groups, design a model of a house that can withstand a hurricane. Consider features like storm shutters, reinforced walls, and elevated structures. Present your design and explain how it would protect against hurricane damage.
Participate in a role-playing game where you act as emergency responders, meteorologists, or community members preparing for a hurricane. Discuss and decide on actions to take before, during, and after the storm. Reflect on the importance of teamwork and communication in emergency situations.
Hurricane – A large, powerful storm with strong winds and heavy rain that forms over warm ocean waters. – Example sentence: The hurricane moved quickly across the ocean, bringing strong winds and heavy rain to the coast.
Storm – A disturbance in the atmosphere that can bring rain, thunder, lightning, and strong winds. – Example sentence: The storm caused the trees to sway and the sky to light up with flashes of lightning.
Winds – Air in motion relative to the surface of the Earth, often felt as a breeze or gust. – Example sentence: The strong winds during the storm knocked down several branches from the trees.
Ocean – A vast body of saltwater that covers most of the Earth’s surface and is home to many marine species. – Example sentence: Scientists study the ocean to understand how it affects weather patterns and climate.
Rain – Water droplets that fall from clouds in the sky, often as part of a weather system. – Example sentence: The rain helped to water the plants and fill the rivers after a long dry spell.
Floods – An overflow of water onto land that is normally dry, often caused by heavy rain or melting snow. – Example sentence: The floods covered the fields with water, making it difficult for farmers to plant their crops.
Prepare – To make ready or get everything in order for an event, such as a storm or emergency. – Example sentence: Families were advised to prepare for the hurricane by stocking up on food and water.
Season – A period of the year characterized by specific weather conditions, such as the rainy season or hurricane season. – Example sentence: During the hurricane season, people living near the coast need to be extra cautious.
Damage – Harm or injury that reduces the value or usefulness of something, often caused by natural events like storms. – Example sentence: The strong winds caused significant damage to the roofs of many houses in the area.
Safety – The condition of being protected from danger or harm, especially during severe weather events. – Example sentence: Ensuring safety during a storm means staying indoors and away from windows.
