Satellites are critical for tracking storms, especially over the ocean. The deadliest natural disaster in the history of the United States was a hurricane that hit Galveston, Texas in September 1900. Communication capabilities were limited so no advanced warnings went out and over 8000 people died. This surprise weather scenario is unthinkable in the 21st century thanks to weather satellites. Meteorologists track hurricanes worldwide from the moment they start as small tropical depressions over warm ocean waters to the time when they dissipate days or weeks later. The same is true for other storms such as thunderstorms, tornadoes and blizzards.

In this lesson you will learn about:

• Hurricanes
• Thunderstorms
• Tornadoes
• Blizzards

Time requirement

This lesson will take you approximately 40 minutes to complete.