Hurricane vs. Blizzards - Essay Example

Hurricanes and Blizzards 06 May Hurricanes and Blizzards Introduction Hurricane defines a storm that is associated withstrong currents of wind. Strong wind currents and blurred vision on the other hand identifies a blizzard, which is also an intensive storm. This paper seeks to discuss the two phenomena. The paper will analyze the similarities and differences between hurricanes and blizzards. Hurricanes A hurricane is an example of adverse weather conditions, in storm, whose impacts involve physical damage to property.

Its strong currents that move at a minimum speed of about 1.25 miles per minute for example sweep off plants and structures. As a result, the occurrence is even a threat to human life that depends on these items (Halmer and Oplinger, 2001). The hurricanes, realized through cyclically moving storms, are seasonal occurrences that are unpredictable. The unpredictability relates to the dynamism with respect to the nature and extent of a particular occurrence. A hurricane “can quickly change its speed, direction, and intensity” (Brainworks, 2009, p. 14). Besides, reliable predictions are only possible from an already developed hurricane.

This means that it is not possible to make predictions prior enough for adequate safety measures (Brainworks, 2009). Hurricanes are also associated with geographical vulnerability of areas as some areas are more vulnerable than others are. This explains the reason for repeated occurrence in some areas while other areas do not experience hurricanes. Its occurrence includes a gradually increasing strength of current that temporarily ceases. Some of the common impacts of hurricanes are “wind damage and flooding” (Halmer and Oplinger, 2001, p. 87). Blizzards Blizzards are also examples of extreme weather conditions.

Halmer and Oplinger explain that a blizzard is a less severe version of a hurricane and is identifiable by features such as duration, and visibility of the surrounding. A characteristic storm that goes beyond three hours for example identifies a blizzard and not a hurricane. The blizzards however have a relatively lower current speed of less than 40 miles per hour. Another characteristic feature of the blizzards that distinguishes them from hurricanes is the extensive formation of mist in the environment to a degree that impairs vision.

Blizzards therefore results in longer hours of snow, and a misty environment that blurs vision. The phenomenon is associated with geographical vulnerability with repeated occurrences reported in specific areas. Lehigh valley in Pennsylvania is an example of areas that have repeatedly experienced blizzards in the past (Halmer and Oplinger, 2001).Similarities and differences Both the hurricanes and blizzards are storms with strong moving currents. The adverse weather conditions causes destruction to vegetation, structures, and are threats to human lives.

Both hurricanes and blizzards are seasonal and are associated with particular vulnerable areas. Similarly, occurrence of both hurricanes and blizzards are unpredictable, until their advanced stages, just before they take place. Differences between the two phenomena however exist in their scope and intensity. Based on the speed and hence momentum of their associated currents, blizzards are less severe and therefore have lesser magnitude of destruction. Blizzards also take place for longer durations than the hurricanes; hurricanes are stronger but occur within a shorter duration of time.

Another distinguishing feature between a hurricane and a blizzard is the thick mist in blizzards that does not form part of hurricanes. Hurricanes and blizzards therefore have similarity in their cause by scope but differ in their occurrence. ReferencesBrainworks. (2009). Hurricanes And Tornadoes. Mumbai, India: Popular PrakashanHalmer, R. and Oplinger, C. (2001). The Lehigh Valley: A Natural and Environmental History. Philadelphia, PA: Penn State University Press