How Destructive Are Hurricanes?
Hurricanes are one of the most destructive of all weather phenomena. There is only one year in the last century that did not see an Atlantic hurricane. However, Atlantic hurricanes that make landfall are not very numerous each year. But when they do make landfall or approach land, it can be devastating. One reason for such devastation is that unlike a tornado which can span about a mile on the ground, the hurricane and its effects can span hundreds of miles and last much longer. Some Hurricanes can grow to the size of Texas. Hurricane force winds can extend for 100 miles or more from the center of the storm. That’s a 200 mile swath of 74 MPH or greater winds! Obviously hurricanes are so destructive because they are so big and affect so many people.
