1. Tropical Storms Revision

3. Storm surges (abnormal rise of the sea along a shore as the result of a storm, sometimes called a tidal surge) flooding coastal area Structural damage to buildings Roads and other infrastructure, vehicles and other property destroyed Sensitive environments destroyed Loss of animal habitats Sea fish killed due to silting Freshwater fish killed in storm surges Fishing boats and other craft damaged Electricity lines blown down causing power cuts High winds tear roofs of buildings or collapse, partially due to poor construction Trees uprooted Roads and transport links become impassable, hindering emergency services Heavy rain causes extensive flooding, flushing out sewers and spreading disease People suffer trauma and stress Catch water-borne diseases People displaced and communities broken up Food and water shortages Job losses due to damage to industries Civil unrest and looting Loss of life among people, livestock and wildlife Cost of repair and insurance claims Loss of income as businesses close Crops destroyed and exports lost Oil prices may increase Social Effects Environmental effects Economical Effects

4. Reducing the Damage Forecast  Prepare  Act Forecast Development and movement of tropical storms closely monitored By agencies like the National Hurricane Center (Atlantic) and the Joint Typhoon Warning Centre (Pacific) Warnings issued to places where tropical storm is likely to strike Only 20-25% chance of knowing exactly where storm will strike, 48 hours in advance Speed and path affected by many factors, making them unpredictable Regularly updated forecasts available on internet. Forecast map includes a area or “cone” of uncertainty, where the hurricane may strike within a 3 day or 5 day period People within area should prepare for the possibility that the storm could hit them Analyse large amounts of data and use computer modelling Prepare Education programmes to increase awareness School lessons, posters and leaflets give advice on drawing up a family disaster plan, putting together an emergency kit and simple methods of preparing homes from strong winds and flying debris Buildings designed and built using materials tested on storm stimulators Windproof tiles, water-resistant windows and strengthened building structures developed, but expensive In areas at risk of storm surge, ground floor walls wash out, leaving only supports, so waves can wash through In LEDC’s NGO’s help put simple but effective measures in place Act When forecasted, evacuation plans are put into place