Weather Patterns: Low-Pressure Areas

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Questions and Answers

What is a Low-Pressure Area (LPA)?

A region with lower pressure than its surroundings (correct)

A type of tropical cyclone with no rain

A storm characterized by high temperatures

A specific type of weather front

Which of the following statements correctly describes the formation of an LPA?

Wind spreads across the ocean surface evenly

Cold air sinks and creates high pressure

Warm evaporation rises, creating a low pressure below (correct)

Rainfall leads to the lowering of atmospheric pressure

What is one common characteristic of tropical cyclones?

They have a consistent wind speed preventing damage

They only form during winter months

They occur primarily over land

They are characterized by heavy rainfall and high sea waves (correct)

What typically happens when a tropical cyclone moves inland?

It quickly diminishes Signup and view all the answers

Why does PAGASA categorize cyclones based on their wind speed?

To evaluate the danger level they pose Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a hydrometeorological hazard?

Earthquakes Signup and view all the answers

What should local government units (LGUs) do before a cyclone hits?

Identify at-risk communities and direct families to evacuation areas Signup and view all the answers

How can families prepare for an incoming tropical cyclone?

Cut or secure tree branches that may fall Signup and view all the answers

What role do geologists, meteorologists, and local officials play during tropical cyclones?

They ensure the damage caused by tropical cyclones is minimized. Signup and view all the answers

What is a secondary hazard caused by tropical cyclones?

Flooding resulting from heavy rainfall. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant effect of flooding on communities?

Exposure to biological hazards. Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended safety measure during floods?

Follow safety tips to cope with floods. Signup and view all the answers

What phenomenon accompanies powerful sea waves during a tropical cyclone?

Storm surge, characterized by rising sea levels. Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant consequence of Super Typhoon Yolanda in 2013?

It caused extensive destruction and loss of life. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following can increase the likelihood of flooding in urban areas?

Clogged or inadequate drainage systems. Signup and view all the answers

How are areas marked according to their flooding hazards?

Depending on the expected height of floodwaters. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Low-Pressure Areas (LPA)

LPA is a region with lower atmospheric pressure compared to surrounding areas.
LPAs are often precursors to tropical cyclones and typhoons.
Meteorologists use pressure drops to forecast weather changes.

Formation of LPAs

Warm evaporation from ocean waters rises, creating low pressure below.
Vapor thickens into clouds which are moved by storm winds.
Clouds condense and precipitate as rain.
Gases move from high-pressure areas (HPA) to LPA, forming winds.

Hydrometeorological Hazards

These are natural atmospheric or oceanic processes that can lead to loss of life or damage.
Hazards include tropical cyclones, floods, and storm surges.

Tropical Cyclones

Large storms characterized by a low-pressure area and powerful winds.
They gain strength over bodies of water and weaken when moving inland.
Areas hit by cyclones experience strong winds, heavy rainfall, and high sea waves.

Destructive Effects of Cyclones

Strong winds can damage structures, vehicles, and topple trees.
High-speed winds can capsize vessels and project dangerous debris.
PAGASA categorizes cyclones based on wind speed for public safety.

Preparedness for Cyclones

Regular occurrences have made Filipinos adept at cyclone preparation.
Pre-cyclone measures include securing tree branches, reinforcing roofs, and boarding windows.
Local Government Units (LGUs) must identify at-risk communities prior to storms.

Flooding as a Secondary Hazard

Heavy rainfall from cyclones leads to flooding, which can be gradual or sudden (flash floods).
Flooding areas are categorized based on potential floodwater heights: low (up to 0.5 m), moderate (up to 1.0 m), and high (above 1.0 m).
Low-lying areas serve as basins for floodwater, increasing vulnerability.

Impact of Flooding

Flooding can result in structural damage and physical hazards, leading to biological risks.
Historical floods have caused outbreaks of diseases like leptospirosis.
Local governments are encouraged to invest in flood prevention measures, including floodgates and adequate drainage systems.

Storm Surges

A storm surge arises from rising sea levels and powerful waves during a tropical cyclone.
Strong winds push coastal waters, amplifying wave heights, posing risks to coastal communities.
The catastrophic effect of Super Typhoon Yolanda in 2013 exemplified the deadly nature of storm surges, causing extensive destruction in Tacloban with waves up to 7 meters high.

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Description

This quiz focuses on Low-Pressure Areas (LPAs) and their significance in weather prediction. Learn how LPAs form and their role in the development of tropical cyclones and typhoons. Test your understanding by arranging statements related to LPAs in the correct order.