🌪️ WebQuest: Understanding Hurricanes

Introduction

Hurricanes are one of nature’s most powerful storms, capable of reshaping coastlines and impacting millions of lives. In this WebQuest, you will explore how hurricanes form, their effects on communities, and how people can prepare for them.

Guiding Questions:

• How do hurricanes form and what conditions make them stronger?
• What are the effects of hurricanes on people, the environment, and the economy?
• How can communities prepare and stay safe?

Learning Objectives (aligned with Florida State Standards & Bloom’s Taxonomy):

• Describe the formation and structure of hurricanes.
• Analyze the short- and long-term impacts of hurricanes.
• Create a collaborative project to demonstrate knowledge and preparation strategies.

Task

You will work in groups to create a narrated PowerPoint presentation about hurricanes. Your project must include:

1. How hurricanes form
2. The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale (categories 1–5)
3. Historical case studies (e.g., Hurricane Andrew, Katrina, Irma, or Ian)
4. Safety and preparedness tips for families and communities

Step 1 – Roles

• Researcher A: How hurricanes form + structure (eye, eyewall, rainbands)
• Researcher B: Saffir-Simpson Scale (explain each category)
• Researcher C: Case studies of major hurricanes (choose at least 2)
• Researcher D: Safety/preparedness + final slide design and narration

Step 2 – Resources

• National Hurricane Center: Hurricanes Overview
• NOAA: Hurricane Safety
• National Geographic: Hurricanes Explained

Step 3 – Presentation Creation

• Collect information for each section
• Design slides with visuals (maps, photos, charts)
• Add narration and transitions

Conclusion

Hurricanes are powerful forces of nature, but through science and preparation, communities can reduce their risks and recover stronger.

Enrichment Activity: Visit the NOAA Hurricane Tracker to follow real-time storm updates:NOAA Hurricane Tracker