Question 1

What is a hurricane?

Accepted Answer

A hurricane is a big, swirling storm with strong winds and heavy rain. It forms over warm ocean water and can cause a lot of damage when it reaches land.

Question 2

How do hurricanes form?

Accepted Answer

Hurricanes form when warm, wet air from the ocean rises and creates clouds and winds. As this process continues, the winds start to spin, creating a huge storm.

Question 3

Why are hurricanes shaped like a spiral?

Accepted Answer

Hurricanes spin because of the way the Earth's rotation pulls on the winds. This creates the swirling, spiral shape you see in pictures of hurricanes.

Question 4

Where do hurricanes usually happen?

Accepted Answer

Most hurricanes happen in warm places near the ocean, like the Atlantic Ocean near the United States, and in the Pacific Ocean near Asia. These areas have the warm water hurricanes need to grow.

Question 5

Can hurricanes happen in cold places?

Accepted Answer

Hurricanes usually can't form in cold places because they need warm ocean water to get strong. So, you won't find them in places like Antarctica or the cold parts of the Atlantic.

Question 6

What is the 'eye' of a hurricane?

Accepted Answer

The 'eye' is the calm center of a hurricane. It’s where the winds are light, and there's little rain, but all around it, the storm is very strong.

Question 7

How do people stay safe during a hurricane?

Accepted Answer

People stay safe by listening to weather warnings, staying indoors, and going to shelters if they need to. It’s important to have emergency supplies like water, food, and flashlights ready.

Question 8

What kind of damage can hurricanes do?

Accepted Answer

Hurricanes can blow down buildings, knock out power lines, and cause flooding with their heavy rain. The winds and waves can be very strong and destructive.

Question 9

How do scientists predict hurricanes?

Accepted Answer

Scientists use special tools and satellites that watch the weather to predict hurricanes. They track the storm's path and speed, warning people early so they can get ready.

Question 10

Why do hurricanes have names?

Accepted Answer

Hurricanes have names to help people talk about and track them easily. Each year, a list of names is made so we can tell different storms apart.

Question 11

What was one of the biggest hurricanes in history?

Accepted Answer

Hurricane Katrina in 2005 was one of the biggest and most damaging. It caused a lot of flooding and damage, especially in a city called New Orleans in the United States.

Question 12

Do hurricanes happen only once a year?

Accepted Answer

Hurricanes can happen many times during a season, which is usually from June to November. Each time, they form when the conditions in the ocean and atmosphere are just right.

Question 13

What is the difference between a hurricane and a tornado?

Accepted Answer

A hurricane is a big storm that forms over the ocean and can last for days. A tornado is a smaller storm with very fast winds that usually happens over land and lasts for a short time.

Question 14

Can animals sense when a hurricane is coming?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some animals can sense changes in the weather and may act differently or move to safer places when a hurricane is coming. It’s like they have their own warning system.

Question 15

What does 'hurricane season' mean?

Accepted Answer

Hurricane season is the time of year when most hurricanes happen. In the Atlantic Ocean, this usually happens from June to November when the water is warmest.

Question 16

How do hurricanes get stronger?

Accepted Answer

Hurricanes get stronger over warm ocean water, which provides energy for the storm. If the storm stays over warm water, it can grow and become even more powerful.

Question 17

Can hurricanes affect plants and animals?

Accepted Answer

Yes, hurricanes can damage plants by knocking them over or breaking their branches. Animals may lose their homes and have trouble finding food after a big storm.

Question 18

What is a storm surge?

Accepted Answer

A storm surge is when high winds push ocean water onto land, causing big waves and flooding. It can happen during a hurricane and cause a lot of damage to coastal areas.

Question 19

How do people prepare for a hurricane?

Accepted Answer

People board up windows, secure outdoor items, and gather supplies like food and water. They also plan evacuation routes to leave if it's not safe to stay at home.

Question 20

Can anything good come from hurricanes?

Accepted Answer

While hurricanes can be very destructive, they also bring rain to dry areas and help to balance the heat of the planet. However, the dangers often outweigh these benefits.

The History and Impact of Hurricanes - 20 FAQs Explained Simply