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Hurricane Model

Data, Graphs, and Maps

Grades6-APEarth and Space Sciences

This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Provided by The Concord Consortium
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What it is

  • This interactive simulation allows students to move and manipulate high-pressure and low-pressure systems to see how sea surface temperature and other factors impact the strength of hurricanes in the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Students can see the hurricane's classification, precipitation, and storm surge play out on the interactive map.

Teaching tips

Prerequisites:
  • Introduce students to how hurricanes and their intensity are measured and categorized.
Preparation:
  • Familiarize yourself with the simulation and its features.
Classroom Implementation:
  • Use this simulation to expand on topics such as extreme weather, weather systems, and disaster preparedness.
Climate Change Connections:
  • If time permits, pair this interactive simulation with this lesson plan to demonstrate the connection between climate change and hurricanes.
  • Consider using this video to help students understand the impact of climate change on the intensity of hurricanes.

From the scientist review

This resource is an interactive map that helps students learn how sea surface temperatures and other weather patterns affect hurricane strength and formation. This will help students understand how hurricanes form and evolve, and how they may be affected by climate change. The information presented is accurate, and this resource is recommended for teaching.
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Hosted on hurricane.concord.org

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