Hurricane Facts For Kids
As a young child, you may have heard of hurricanes, or you may hear about them in your school or from your parents. But what are hurricanes, and how do they form?
First and foremost, hurricanes are a type of natural disaster that can occur in different parts of the world where the weather is warm, especially near the equator. They are powerful storms that originated from a disturbance in the atmosphere, usually over the ocean, where the water temperature is warm enough to create a lot of energy.
Once a small area of warm air rises from the ocean, more air starts to flow towards it, and this creates a cycle of air rising and falling that intensifies over time. As the cycle becomes stronger, it causes winds to form, which can become a hurricane if it exceeds a certain speed.
Hurricanes are measured on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, which ranges from category 1 (the least severe) to category 5 (the most severe). A hurricane’s strength is determined by its wind speed, which can range from 74 mph to over 155 mph.
Hurricanes can cause a lot of damage, including flooding, destruction of homes and buildings, and power outages. People who live in areas that are prone to hurricanes must be prepared by having emergency plans in place, such as evacuating their homes, having enough food and water, and keeping important documents safe.
Fortunately, hurricanes don’t happen all the time. In the Atlantic Ocean, where the United States is located, hurricanes typically occur between June and November, with the peak season being between August and October.
While hurricanes can be scary, it’s important to remember that scientists and meteorologists can predict their paths and provide early warning systems. This helps people prepare and stay safe during a hurricane.
In conclusion, hurricanes are powerful storms that can cause a lot of damage, but with proper preparation and knowledge, people can stay safe and minimize the impact of this natural disaster.