Natural Disasters Flashcards
6 cards from real Safety & Emergency practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Natural Disasters flashcards as text
During an earthquake, what is the recommended protective action if indoors?
Answer: Drop, cover, and hold on under a sturdy table or desk
FEMA and USGS recommend Drop, Cover, and Hold On as the most protective action during earthquake shaking — doorways offer no special protection.
What scale measures the magnitude of an earthquake based on seismic wave energy?
Answer: Moment Magnitude Scale (Mw)
The Moment Magnitude Scale (Mw) is the current scientific standard for measuring earthquake magnitude, having replaced the Richter scale for large events.
What is the primary sign of an approaching tsunami after a coastal earthquake?
Answer: Rapid and unusual retreat of the sea from the shoreline
A sudden, unusual withdrawal of the sea exposes the seafloor and signals the first trough of an incoming tsunami — immediate high-ground evacuation is required.
At what wind speed does a tropical storm officially become a hurricane?
Answer: 74 mph (64 knots)
A tropical cyclone reaches hurricane status when sustained winds reach 74 mph (64 knots or 119 km/h), classified as Category 1 on the Saffir-Simpson scale.
What is storm surge in the context of hurricanes?
Answer: An abnormal rise of water generated by a storm's winds pushing water onto shore
Storm surge is the abnormal coastal flooding caused by hurricane winds pushing massive amounts of ocean water inland, historically the deadliest hurricane hazard.
What is the Enhanced Fujita (EF) Scale used to classify?
Answer: Tornado intensity based on damage
The Enhanced Fujita Scale rates tornado intensity from EF0 (minor damage) to EF5 (catastrophic destruction) based on observed damage indicators.