CBM CBM Severe Weather and Hazardous Conditions

Question 1

What is the minimum sustained wind speed (mph) that classifies a tropical cyclone as a Category 1 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson scale?

Accepted Answer

74 mph

Answer

A Category 1 hurricane begins at sustained winds of 74 mph (64 knots), the threshold that distinguishes it from a tropical storm.

Question 2

What distinguishes a 'supercell' thunderstorm from an ordinary thunderstorm?

Accepted Answer

A persistent rotating updraft called a mesocyclone

Answer

The defining characteristic of a supercell is a deep, persistent rotating updraft (mesocyclone), which makes it capable of producing large hail, damaging winds, and strong tornadoes.

Question 3

What is 'storm surge' in a hurricane context?

Accepted Answer

An abnormal rise of water above normal tide level driven by a storm's winds and pressure

Answer

Storm surge is the abnormal coastal flooding caused by a hurricane's onshore winds and low pressure pushing ocean water inland, and it is historically the leading cause of hurricane deaths.

Question 4

A tornado WARNING (as opposed to a watch) means what?

Accepted Answer

A tornado has been spotted or indicated by radar and is imminent or occurring

Answer

A tornado warning is issued when a tornado is indicated by radar rotation or confirmed by a trained spotter, requiring immediate shelter action.

Question 5

What minimum sustained wind speed (mph) is required for a tropical cyclone to be classified as a tropical storm?

Accepted Answer

39 mph

Answer

A tropical cyclone becomes a named tropical storm when sustained winds reach 39 mph (34 knots), at which point it receives a name from the seasonal list.

CBM - Certified Broadcast Meteorologist Practice Test

CBM - Certified Broadcast Meteorologist Practice Test

CBM CBM Severe Weather and Hazardous Conditions