STORM SURGE Meaning and
Definition
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Storm surge is a meteorological phenomenon characterized by a rapid and extreme rise in the sea level caused by powerful storms, such as hurricanes, cyclones, or typhoons. It is a surge of seawater that occurs when the force of the wind from the storm pushes ocean water towards the shore, in addition to low atmospheric pressure, which further bulges up the water surface. As a result, storm surges often cause coastal flooding and can pose a significant threat to life and property.
The severity of a storm surge depends on various factors, including the strength and size of the storm, its track, the shape of the coastline, and the bathymetry (shape and depth) of the ocean floor. It is important to note that storm surge is different from the wind-driven waves associated with storms, as waves are generated by the wind whereas storm surge refers to the abnormal rise in water level.
By nature, storm surges strike suddenly and violently, inundating low-lying areas and eroding coastlines. They can penetrate inland, flooding rivers and bays several miles away from the coast, exacerbating flooding hazards. Additionally, storm surges can be accompanied by strong winds and heavy rainfall, which contribute to the destruction and devastation caused by the storm.
Due to the potential dangers posed by storm surges, coastal communities and authorities typically issue evacuation orders and implement emergency response plans to minimize the impact on human life and property.
Common Misspellings for STORM SURGE
- atorm surge
- ztorm surge
- xtorm surge
- dtorm surge
- etorm surge
- wtorm surge
- srorm surge
- sform surge
- sgorm surge
- syorm surge
- s6orm surge
- s5orm surge
- stirm surge
- stkrm surge
- stlrm surge
- stprm surge
- st0rm surge
- st9rm surge
- stoem surge
- stodm surge
Etymology of STORM SURGE
The word "storm surge" has its roots in the Old French word "surgir" which means "to rise". Over time, it entered Middle English as "surge" with the same meaning. The term "storm surge" specifically emerged in the mid-19th century to describe the abnormal rise of seawater during a storm, especially along coastlines. The combination of "storm" and "surge" accurately reflects the sudden and forceful nature of the rising waters during a storm event.
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