Storm Science
What is the primary difference between a hurricane and a tornado?
A hurricane is a large storm system with strong winds, heavy rain, and a defined rotation, whereas a tornado is a smaller, rapidly rotating column of air that forms from a thunderstorm.
Where is the safest place to take shelter during a tornado in Canada?
In a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest floor without windows.
What is the average number of tornadoes that occur in Canada each year?
Approximately 60 to 80 tornadoes.
Which region of Canada is most often affected by hurricanes?
The Atlantic provinces (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador).
Myth: for tornados, size does not determine its strength
What is the scale used to measure the strength of hurricanes?
The Saffir-Simpson Scale.
If you are in a building during a hurricane, what should you do to stay safe?
Move to a small, windowless room in the interior of the building, away from exterior walls and corners.
What is the most common month to experience tornados in Canada
July
What is the most common month for hurricanes to impact Canada?
September.
You can safely drive through floodwaters after a hurricane.
Myth:Absolutely not! Just 15 cm of water can make a car lose control, and 60 cm can sweep away most vehicles. “Turn around, don’t drown.”
What is the 'eye' of a hurricane?
The calm center of a hurricane, where the weather is relatively clear and still.
What should you do if you're caught outside during a tornado in Canada?
Lie flat in a low-lying area, such as a ditch, and protect your head. If possible, seek shelter in a nearby building or vehicle.
What region of Canada is most commonly affected by tornadoes?
The Prairie provinces (Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta), specifically in an area known as "Tornado Alley" in Canada.
what was the name of the hurricane Mr. Townend experienced in 2022
Hurricane Fiona
Every second Hurricanes release the energy of 10 Atomic Bombs
Fact
What wind speed is required for a storm to be classified as a hurricane?
Winds of 74 mph (119 km/h) or higher.
What are some essential items to include in a hurricane emergency kit in Canada?
Water, non-perishable food, flashlight, batteries, first aid kit, medications, important documents, and a battery-powered radio.
What is the Enhanced Fujita (EF) scale used for?
It measures the strength of tornadoes based on the damage they cause.
What causes Hurricanes to rotate counter clockwise in the northern hemisphere
The Coriolis Effect
MYTH: tornadoes do not typically travel in a straight line; they can change direction and even backtrack, influenced by the thunderstorms that form them and specific wind condition
What atmospheric conditions are most favorable for tornado formation?
Warm, moist air at the surface with cooler, drier air above, combined with wind shear.
What is the recommended action if a tornado warning is issued while you're in a car in Canada?
Do not try to outrun the tornado. Instead, seek shelter in a sturdy building, or if no shelter is available, lie flat in a low-lying area.
what is the minimum temperature water needs to be for a hurricane to form
80 degrees fahrenheit
Hurricanes can produce Snowfall
Fact!! it's rare but possible for hurricanes to produce snowfall, a phenomenon sometimes called a "snow-i-cane" or "snurricane," especially when a hurricane moves inland and encounters colder temperature