Question

what happens when a hurricane makes landfall?
a hurricane will have a smaller storm surge after it makes landfall.
a hurricane will have stronger wind speeds after it makes landfall.
a hurricane will pick up speed after making landfall.
a hurricane will weaken after making landfall.

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• Option 1: Storm surge is caused by the hurricane's winds pushing water, and when a hurricane makes landfall, the storm surge typically decreases as it moves over land (losing the ocean's water source), but the main reason for the hurricane's change is weakening, not just storm surge size. However, the key is the hurricane's overall strength.
• Option 2: Hurricanes get their energy from warm ocean water. When they make landfall, they lose this energy source, so wind speeds decrease, not increase.
• Option 3: Hurricanes rely on ocean heat and moisture. Over land, they lose these, so they slow down, not pick up speed.
• Option 4: Hurricanes need warm ocean water and moisture to maintain strength. When they hit land, they lose the ocean as an energy source, encounter friction from land surfaces, and lose moisture, causing them to weaken.

Answer:

D. A hurricane will weaken after making landfall.