What paths do hurricanes take?

Tracking Hurricanes

Once the winds of a tropical storm reach 74 miles per hour, a hurricane is born. Then, they are named in a special way. How a hurricane is named is a very simple process. Next, determining the path it will take can help to save lives. Tracking hurricanes helps us to prepare for flooding from rain and destruction from violent winds.

 

Can you track a hurricane?

Hurricanes can be tracked using lines of latitude and longitude. These are imaginary lines that run along the earth's surface. Lines of latitude run east and west, while lines of longitude run north and south. These "lines" are used to measure distance on maps, and can help to locate hurricanes.

One day, Hurricane Agnes was at 38°N and 74°W.

  1. LOOK for 38°N on the right of the map. There is no 38, but 38 is a little less than 40. Follow the black line to the left of 38°N.
  2. LOOK for 74°W on the top of the map. There is no 74, but 74 is between 70 and 80. Follow the black line down from 74°W.
  3. CLICK on the point where both lines come together.

     

Tracking Map

Are YOU ready to track a hurricane? CLICK on the name buttons below to track a killer storm.

Hurricane Andrew Hurricane Camille Hurricane Hugo

To detect, name, and track hurricanes, the National Hurricane Center has been established in Miami, Florida. CLICK on the button to the right to learn more.

National Hurricane Center

Radar Screen

Hurricane Menu

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Science Learning Network / Inquiry Resources

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