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Question 7 (a) Name one example of a significant weather event that you have studied - Junior Cycle Geography - Question 7 - 2021
Question 7
Question 7 (a) Name one example of a significant weather event that you have studied. (b) When did this weather event happen? (c) Name a location that was affecte... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Question 7 (a) Name one example of a significant weather event that you have studied - Junior Cycle Geography - Question 7 - 2021
Step 1
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Step 5
Explain how the weather event you named in part (a) was formed. Use at least one diagram in your answer.
Answer
Hurricane Ophelia formed when warm moist air rises over the ocean, leading to a low-pressure system. The air surrounding this low-pressure area rushes to fill the space left by the rising warm air. This upward movement of warm air results in cooling and condensation, forming clouds. The system starts spinning due to the Coriolis effect, gaining strength and eventually evolving into a category 3 hurricane. Once it made landfall in Ireland, it weakened to below category 1 with wind speeds dropping to 120 km/h.
Step 6
Why do you consider this to be a significant weather event?
Answer
Hurricane Ophelia is significant as it was unusual for hurricanes to form in the Atlantic and impact Ireland. The consequences were severe, causing widespread damage, including power outages, flooding, and transportation disruptions due to fallen trees and debris. The situation was serious enough that Met Éireann issued the highest possible status red warning for the entire country.