1. 7.4 Natural Disasters in Florida
How have natural disasters affected life in Florida?
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What are the causes of floods and droughts?
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How can you protect yourself from hazardous weather?
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2. How have natural disasters affected life in Florida?
People have lost their homes
Lives have been lost
Schools, airports, and hospitals have been closed do the natural disasters
Cost of insurance has risen
Tourism has been affected

3. Hurricanes 40% of U.S. hurricanes hit Florida
Form in tropical waters off coast of Africa
Steered westward by easterly trade winds
Winds: much of the damage by hurricanes is caused by the strong, long-lasting winds.
Rain:15-30 cm of rain can occur, causing flash floods and mudslides
Storm Surge: the rush of water that is caused by powerful winds. Greatest threat to life and property

4. Tornadoes
Occur most frequently during summer months and February-April
Summer months: often result of tropical cyclones making landfall
February to April: jet stream often moves south into Florida—strengthening thunderstorms.
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5. Wildfires
Wildfire: is a large fire that spreads quickly over a natural area.
Can start by lightning, arson, debris burning
Dry season: runs from November/December into April/May
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6. Floods
Flood: an overflowing of water in a normally dry area. Causes of flooding: storm surges, too much rain in a short period

7. Droughts
Drought: a long period of scarce rainfall or dry weather. Causes: dry weather systems that remain in one place for weeks or months at a time Affects: crop failure and famine

8. Protection from Hazardous Weather
Hurricanes—if you hear a hurricane warning and are told to evacuate, leave the area immediately!
Tornado—safest place to be during a tornado is in either a storm shelter or basement. If not available move to the middle of the ground floor. If you are outside, lie flat in a ditch.
Tornado Watch: tornadoes are possible
Tornado Warning: tornado has been seen

9. Tornado
Hurricane