The formation of Hurricane Maria Flashcards

Describes the dates and development of Hurricane Maria

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1
Q

When did the tropical disturbance that led to Hurricane Maria form?

A

In mid-September 2017, when a tropical wave moved off the west coast of Africa and entered the Atlantic Ocean.

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2
Q

How do warm sea surface temperatures contribute to tropical cyclone formation?

A

Warm waters act as fuel, allowing thunderstorms to form and release latent heat, which then warms the air, causing it to rise and create a low-pressure system.

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3
Q

What threshold temperature is usually required for tropical cyclone formation?

A

Usually 26.5°C

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4
Q

How does wind shear affect tropical cyclones?

A

Wind shear can disrupt the vertical structure of a storm. Minimal wind shear allows the storm to maintain its structure and grow.

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5
Q

When was the disturbance classified as a tropical depression?

A

Around September 16.

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6
Q

At what wind speeds did the system get named Tropical Storm Maria?

A

When the system’s winds reached 39 mph on September 16.

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7
Q

What is rapid intensification in the context of tropical cyclones?

A

It is a process where a storm’s wind speeds increase dramatically in a short period.

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8
Q

When did Maria reach Category 5 hurricane status?

A

By September 18, with winds of over 160 mph.

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9
Q

Where and when did Hurricane Maria make its most devastating landfall?

A

In Puerto Rico on September 20 as a Category 4 hurricane.

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10
Q

What kind of damage did Maria bring upon its landfall in Puerto Rico?

A

Catastrophic wind damage, flooding (through rainfall and storm surge), and landslides.

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11
Q

How did Hurricane Maria compare to other hurricanes in the 2017 season?

A

Maria grew from a tropical wave into one of the most powerful and destructive hurricanes of the 2017 season due to the right combination of atmospheric and oceanic factors.

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