GCSE Gg Case Study - Hurricane Floyd PDF Print E-mail
 

 

 

A Weather Event & its impact on people & the environment

 

Hurricane Floyd, U.S.A 1999 (MEDC)

 

What are Hurricanes?

Hurricanes are intense low pressure systems.  They form in the tropics where their energy is gained from heat and moisture from the sea's surface.  A column of air rises rapidly above the sea. Air near the surface rushes into the space created by the rising air but spirals due to the rotation of the earth.

 

Why was Hurricane Floyd special?

  • The size of the spiral and eye was far larger than anything previously recorded.
  • On 14th Sept 1999 it crossed the Bahamas causing huge damage.
  • The following day (15th Sept'99) towns along the Florida coastline U.S.A were evacuated.
  • During the day the storm surge arrives.(big waves created and pushed ahead of the storm).
  • In the evening areas of coastline are flooded as 120 mph winds hit Florida.
  • Record amounts of rainfall occur and last for a record period of time.
  • Huge devastation occurs over the next 2 days before the hurricane loses energy. The cost is put at billions of dollars.

 

 

What are the social, economic and environmental impacts?

 

Positive impacts

Negative impacts

Social

  • Communities pull together to prepare for the hurricane and deal with its consequences.
  • The hurricane was well monitored by satellite greatly increasing our understanding of them.
  • Families come back to destroyed houses and possessions.
  • Roads out of the area became jammed. 21 motorists lost their lives.
  • 6400 evacuees fill shelters to bursting point.
  • Short term disruption to roads and communications means people are stranded and cannot contact family.
  • Shops sell out of food and bottled water as people ‘panic buy' before the hurricane arrives.

Economic

  • Post hurricane increase in tourism to see damage caused.
  • Aid provided with grants to regenerate the effected areas.

 

  • Long term tourist numbers drop leading to economic decline.
  • Insurance prices go up due to increasing risk of hurricanes.
  • Businesses go bankrupt and cannot recover costs.
  • There is a temporary shortage of housing in the area.
  • The cost is billions of dollars.

Environmental

  • Marine (sea) animals enjoy an extension of habitat and food supply for a short period of time.
  • Flooding in coastal resorts.
  • Rare Mangrove swamps are battered.
  • Expensive drainage networks are blocked.
  • Drinking water contaminated by salt water.

D.Brewer 2008
 
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