Chapter 6

We know that during the winter, all polar \((\mathrm{P})\) air masses are cold. Which is likely to be colder: a wintertime \(\mathrm{mP}\) air mass or a wintertime cP air mass? Briefly explain. We expect tropical (T) air masses to be warm, but some are warmer than others. Which should be warmer: a summertime cT air mass or a summertime mT air mass? How did you figure this out?

If you hear that a cyclone is approaching, should you immediately seek shelter? Why or why not?

The accompanying table lists the number of tornadoes reported in the United States by decade. Propose a reason to explain why the totals for the \(1990 \mathrm{~s}\) and \(2000 \mathrm{~s}\) are so much higher than for the \(1950 \mathrm{~s}\) and \(1960 \mathrm{~s}\). $$ \begin{array}{|c|c|} \hline \text { Number of U.S. } & \text { Tornadoes Reported, by Decade } \\ \hline \text { Decade } & \text { Number of Tornadoes Reported } \\ \hline 1950-1959 & 4796 \\ \hline 1960-1969 & 6613 \\ \hline 1970-1979 & 8579 \\ \hline 1980-1989 & 8196 \\ \hline 1990-1999 & 12,138 \\ \hline 2000-2009 & 12,914 \\ \hline \end{array} $$

The number of tornado deaths in the United States in the 2000 s was less than 40 percent the number that occurred in the 1950 s, even though there was a significant increase in population. Suggest a likely reason for the decline in the death toll.

A television meteorologist is able to inform viewers about the intensity of an approaching hurricane. However, the meteorologist can report the intensity of a tornado only after it has occurred. Why is this the case?

This world map shows the tracks and intensities of thousands of hurricanes and other tropical cyclones. It was put together by the National Hurricane Center and the Joint Typhoon Warning Center. a. What area has experienced the greatest number of category 4 and 5 storms? b. Why do hurricanes not form in the very heart of the tropics, astride the equator? c. Explain the absence of storms in the South Atlantic and the eastern South Pacific.