What is a storm surge for kids?
A storm surge is a big wave of water that moves onto land when a storm, like a hurricane or a typhoon, hits the coast. Imagine you’re playing near the beach, and suddenly, a huge wave comes in, sweeping everything in its path. That’s a storm surge!
How does a storm surge happen?
When a storm comes, it moves quickly over the ocean. As it moves, it pushes the water in front of it. This water piles up and can get very high, especially if the storm is very strong. Sometimes, the water can rise as much as 20 feet or more above normal sea level!
Why are storm surges dangerous?
Storm surges are dangerous because they can cause a lot of damage. They can flood homes, wash away cars, and even destroy buildings. They can also make it hard for people to get around, because roads and bridges can be washed away or blocked by debris.
What can we do to stay safe during a storm surge?
To stay safe during a storm surge, it’s important to listen to the people who tell us what to do. This might mean leaving the area or moving to a safer place. We should also follow these steps:
1. Listen to the news and weather reports to find out if a storm surge is coming.
2. Stay away from the beach and low-lying areas.
3. Follow the instructions of local authorities, like police or emergency services.
4. Always be prepared with a disaster kit that includes food, water, and a first aid kit.
Remember, a storm surge is a big wave of water that can cause a lot of trouble. But by staying safe and listening to the people who can help us, we can keep ourselves and our families safe during a storm.
