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Defending Coastlines Through Science & Preparedness
Defending Coastlines Through Science & Preparedness
Hurricane Survival Quiz
Could You Survive These Hurricanes?
Hurricanes are nature’s ultimate test of human resilience. But how would you fare if faced with history’s most catastrophic storms? This interactive journey puts you in the eye of five legendary hurricanes—from rapid intensification to record-breaking surges—to see if your knowledge and instincts match what survival demands.
1. The Unpredictable Monster: Hurricane Ian (2022)
Scenario: It’s September 27, 2022. A tropical storm near Cuba suddenly explodes into a Category 5 overnight. You’re in Fort Myers with 12 hours until landfall.
A. Evacuate immediately (but highways are jammed)
B. Stay and reinforce your home (but it’s not rated for Cat 5 winds)
C. Head to a local shelter (but it’s not storm-surge-proof)
If you chose A, you might escape—but many who waited faced 15-foot surges. B? Homes not built to code collapsed. C? Some shelters flooded.
Lesson: Rapid intensification leaves no perfect option—only preparation matters.
2. The Deadliest Surge: Hurricane Haiyan (2013)
Scenario: You’re in Tacloban, Philippines. Super Typhoon Haiyan approaches with 195 mph winds. Officials warn of a “tidal wave,” but your family refuses to leave.
A. Force them to evacuate to a concrete school uphill
B. Stay in your house (it survived past storms)
C. Climb a nearby coconut tree (as some survivors did)
A saved lives—the school stood. B? 90% of structures were wiped out. C? A few survived, but many were swept away.
Lesson: Storm surges kill more than wind—always seek high ground.
3. The Costliest Lesson: Hurricane Katrina (2005)
Scenario: New Orleans, August 28. A mandatory evacuation is ordered, but you’re low-income with no car. The Superdome is “the refuge of last resort.”
A. Walk to the Superdome (overcrowded, no supplies)
B. Risk staying in your attic (with no escape tools)
C. Flag down a news van for help
A meant survival—but in horrific conditions. B? Many drowned when levees broke. C? Some got lucky.
Lesson: Systemic failures cost lives—prep before the storm.
4. The Silent Killer: Hurricane Harvey (2017)
Scenario: Houston, August 26. Harvey stalls overhead, dumping 60 inches of rain. Your neighborhood is flooding fast.
A. Climb to the roof (but risk being stranded)
B. Wade through chest-deep water (electrical hazards, currents)
C. Wait in the attic with an axe (to break through if trapped)
C was the only safe choice. A/B led to drownings or electrocutions.
Lesson: Rain floods are stealthy—have an escape plan.
5. The Future Storm: Climate-Powered Hurricane (2030?)
Scenario: A new “hypercane” with 220 mph winds is predicted. You’re in a high-risk zone.
A. Relocate inland permanently
B. Invest in a hurricane-proof home ($250K+)
C. Trust government warnings when they come
A/B are the only guarantees. C? Future storms may outpace warnings.
Lesson: Adaptation is no longer optional.
Final Score: Are You a Hurricane Survival Expert?
5/5 Right Choices: Disaster planner in the making!
3/5: You’d survive—but need a better kit.
1/5: Luck won’t save you next time.