Question

What is a storm surge?

• A. A sudden drop in sea level associated with high-pressure systems.
• B. A coastal flood involving a sudden rise in water level, typically associated with low-pressure weather systems.
• C. A prolonged period of drought in coastal areas.
• D. An underwater earthquake causing sea level fluctuations.

Answer 1

Answer:

B. A coastal flood involving a sudden rise in water level, typically associated with low-pressure weather systems.

• A storm surge is an abnormal rise in sea level caused by a powerful storm, such as a hurricane or tropical cyclone, over and above the normal astronomical tide. It's primarily driven by the storm's strong winds pushing water towards the coast and, to a lesser extent, by the low atmospheric pressure in the storm's center which allows the ocean surface to bulge upwards.

• This combination can lead to severe coastal flooding, as the elevated water levels inundate low-lying areas.