The Effects of Tropical Storms
Geography: AQA GCSE, topic 1.3.11
The Effects of Tropical Storms
Primary effects happen during the natural disaster (or during the tropical storm). Secondary effects happen later on because of the primary effects.
Primary effects
- Damage to infrastructure - transport networks, railway lines, roads, and bridges can be damaged or flooded.
- Flights and train journeys are often cancelled because high winds make travel dangerous.
- Flying debris blown by the winds can kill or injure people.
- Electricity cables and pylons above ground can be damaged by wind or debris.
- Rivers and coastal towns can be flooded and the water damage can last for years. Floods can also cause sewage to overflow out of drains, potentially mixing with water supplies.
Secondary effects
- Floods can damage people's houses causing homelessness. Without finding shelter, people could freeze to death outside.
- If water or electricity supplies are cut off, people can become isolated and stranded from basic health requirements. This can cause illness and viruses to spread.
- People may not be able to get work and earn money if airports and train lines are damaged.
- Damaged roads, airports, and train lines could stop aid and emergency services helping those affected.
- Damage to crops, the death of livestock, and the blocking of supply lines can all contribute to food shortages.
Test yourself on The Effects of Tropical Storms
Which of the following is a primary effect of tropical storms?
Which of the following are secondary effects of tropical storms?