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Figure 10a shows the track of Hurricane Michael, and data related to the intensity and timescale of the event - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 5 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 5
Figure 10a shows the track of Hurricane Michael, and data related to the intensity and timescale of the event. Figure 10b shows the track of Hurricane Michael betwe... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Figure 10a shows the track of Hurricane Michael, and data related to the intensity and timescale of the event - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 5 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
AO1 – Knowledge and understanding of impact and management issues associated with hurricanes.
Answer
Hurricanes, such as Hurricane Michael, are tropical storms characterized by strong winds, heavy rainfall, and coastal flooding. The potential hazards include storm surges, high winds, and flooding, which can cause both immediate damage and long-term detrimental effects on the population and infrastructure. Impacts may also extend to secondary hazards, including landslides and increased risk of disease due to stagnant water.
Moreover, the socio-economic effects are significant, affecting livelihoods, displacing families, and straining local economies, which could require years for recovery. The diverse impacts necessitate a holistic understanding of both physical and human geography.
Step 2
AO2 – Application of knowledge and understanding to the novel situation, to assess the scale of challenge associated with managing an event of this magnitude.
Answer
The area impacted by Hurricane Michael is extensive, exposing multiple hazards as shown in Figures 10a and 10b. The storm's path through Florida indicated the scale of rainfall accumulated, increasing flood risks in affected regions. Managing such challenges requires efficient emergency response and resource allocation, especially in densely populated or vulnerable areas.
Furthermore, local authorities must stretch their resources to meet urgent needs, including evacuation plans, emergency shelters, and restoration of services. Figure 10c illustrates the destruction at Mexico Beach, highlighting the immediate need for rebuilding efforts and the complexities involved in ensuring the safety and sustainability of future developments.
The scale of the challenges is exacerbated by the potential for further tropical storms in the region, necessitating strategic planning and infrastructure resilience to withstand such events in the future.