Storm surge

Definition

Storm surge refers to the abnormal rise in seawater level during a storm, primarily caused by the strong winds and low atmospheric pressure associated with tropical cyclones or hurricanes. This phenomenon can lead to devastating flooding, particularly in coastal areas, and is a crucial factor in understanding coastal processes and the associated natural hazards.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Storm surges can raise water levels by several feet, resulting in severe flooding that can inundate coastal communities.
2. The height of a storm surge can be influenced by factors such as the shape of the coastline, the angle of approach of the storm, and local tidal conditions.
3. Storm surge is often responsible for more fatalities during hurricanes than the winds or rain themselves due to the rapid onset of flooding.
4. Coastal regions that are low-lying or have been developed close to the shore are particularly vulnerable to storm surges.
5. Advanced forecasting models have been developed to predict storm surge impacts, helping to improve preparedness and response efforts during severe weather events.

Review Questions

• How does storm surge contribute to coastal flooding during hurricanes?
  • Storm surge contributes to coastal flooding by causing an abnormal rise in sea levels due to strong winds and low pressure from hurricanes. When a hurricane approaches land, its winds push seawater toward the coast, leading to a rapid increase in water levels that can exceed several feet. This influx of water overwhelms coastal defenses and inundates low-lying areas, resulting in significant flooding that can cause widespread damage and disrupt communities.
• What factors influence the severity of storm surges in different coastal regions?
  • The severity of storm surges can be influenced by various factors, including the shape of the coastline, local bathymetry (the underwater topography), and tidal conditions at the time of the storm. Narrow bays and estuaries can amplify surge heights due to funneling effects, while flat coastal areas may experience more widespread flooding. Additionally, if a storm occurs during high tide, it can exacerbate flooding by combining with already elevated water levels.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of current storm surge prediction models in improving disaster preparedness and response efforts.
  • Current storm surge prediction models have significantly improved in accuracy and reliability over recent years, allowing for better assessments of potential impacts on vulnerable coastal communities. These models use real-time data from satellite observations and weather stations to forecast surge heights and flood extents. By providing timely warnings and detailed information about expected impacts, these models enhance disaster preparedness and response efforts, enabling authorities to implement evacuation plans and allocate resources effectively. However, ongoing challenges remain in communicating risks clearly to residents and adapting infrastructure to mitigate future impacts.

Related terms

hurricane: A powerful tropical storm system characterized by strong winds, heavy rainfall, and low atmospheric pressure that can cause severe damage along coastlines.

high tide: The maximum height of the sea level during a tidal cycle, which can amplify the effects of storm surge when occurring simultaneously with a storm.

floodplain: The flat area adjacent to a river or coastline that is prone to flooding, especially during storm surge events when water levels rise significantly.