5. What are Do’s and Don’ts before, during, and after an earthquake?
Before an Earthquake (Preparedness):
Do’s:
1. Secure heavy furniture and items to prevent them from falling.
2. Identify safe spots like under sturdy tables or against interior walls.
3. Prepare an emergency kit with essentials (food, water, flashlight, etc.).
4. Practice earthquake drills regularly.
Don’ts:
1. Do not keep heavy objects on high shelves.
2. Avoid staying in poorly constructed buildings.
3. Don’t panic; remain calm and alert.
During an Earthquake (Response):
Do’s
1. Drop, cover, and hold on under sturdy furniture.
2. If outside, move to open areas away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
3. Stay inside if you are indoors; don’t run outside.
4. Use stairs instead of elevators.
Don’ts:
1. Don’t use matches or electrical appliances (risk of fire or explosion).
2. Avoid standing near windows or glass objects.
3. Do not rush to crowded exits.
After an Earthquake (Recovery):
Do’s:
1. Check for injuries and provide first aid if necessary.
2. Inspect buildings for structural damage before re-entering.
3. Listen to emergency updates via radio or official sources.
4. Be prepared for aftershocks.
Don’ts:
1. Don’t turn on gas or electrical systems unless checked for leaks.
2. Avoid stepping on debris or unstable ground.
3. Don’t spread rumors or unverified information.
6. Write short notes on Tsunamis and Volcanoes.
Tsunamis:
Tsunamis are large ocean waves caused by underwater disturbances, such as
earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides.
Characteristics: They have long wavelengths and move at high speeds in deep water but
slow down and increase in height as they approach shallow coastal areas.
Effects: Tsunamis can cause devastating flooding, property destruction, and loss of life in
coastal regions.
Example: The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami was triggered by a massive undersea
earthquake.
Volcanoes:
Volcanoes are openings in the Earth’s crust through which molten rock (magma), gases,
and ash are ejected.
Types:
1. Active (frequently erupting),
2. Dormant (inactive but can erupt),
3. Extinct (not expected to erupt).
Effects: Volcanic eruptions can lead to lava flows, ash clouds, climate changes, and
destruction of ecosystems.
Example: Mount Vesuvius in Italy (AD 79 eruption buried Pompeii).
7. What are Tornadoes? Explain the Life Cycle of a Tornado.
Tornadoes:
Tornadoes are violently rotating columns of air extending from a thunderstorm to the
ground. They are often funnel-shaped and can cause massive destruction.
Formation: They develop under severe thunderstorms with significant instability and
wdestructio
Life Cycle of a Tornado:
1. Formation Stage (Mesocyclone):
A rotating updraft (mesocyclone) forms within a thunderstorm.
Cold and warm air interact, leading to rapid air circulation.
2. Funnel Cloud Stage:
The rotating column of air begins to stretch downwards from the cloud base but does not
yet reach the ground.
3. Mature Stage
The tornado touches the ground, becoming fully formed and most destructive during this
stage.
Wind speeds can exceed 300 km/h, causing massive damage.
4. Dissipation Stage:
The tornado weakens as the supply of warm air decreases.
The funnel narrows and eventually disappear.
8. Write short notes on Norwesters, Cold Waves, and Heat Waves in India.
Norwesters:
Norwesters (locally called Kalbaisakhi in Bengal) are pre-monsoon thunderstorms
occurring in eastern India during summer (March to May).
They bring strong winds, heavy rain, and hail, providing temporary relief from heat.
Effects: While beneficial for crops like jute and rice, they can also cause property damage
and loss of life.
Cold Waves in India:
Cold waves occur in northern and northwestern India during winter when cold, dry winds
from the Himalayas lower temperatures significantly.
States like Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh are most affected.
Effects: Cold waves can lead to frost, crop damage, and increased health risks like
hypotaffecte
Heat Waves in India:
Heat waves occur in summer when temperatures rise abnormally high (≥40°C in plains,
≥30°C in hilly areas).
Most common in northern, central, and western India (e.g., Rajasthan, Gujarat).
Effects: Prolonged heat waves cause dehydration, heatstroke, and deaths, especially
among vulnerable populations.
