Module 8 Make it Real Discussion Topics

WEAX 201

Module 8 Make it Real Discussion Topics

Choose ONE of the topics below.  In 500 words or less, develop a structured and engaging initial post that covers all discussion points as outlined for that topic.

1. After reviewing the chapter 14 topic Thunderstorm Types and the module 8 mini-lesson on Ordinary vs. Severe Thunderstorms, construct an engaging 3-paragraph initial post that addresses the following points:

• Paragraph 1: There are two required elements to this paragraph: 1) State the National Weather Service’s definition of a severe thunderstorm. AND 2) Define vertical wind shear, and explain why it is THE important differentiating factor between ordinary cell (or air mass) thunderstorms and severe (graphics will add greatly to the discussion here)
• Paragraph 2: Describe at least two specific features of either multicell or supercell thunderstorms that makes it likely to be categorized as severe.
• Paragraph 3: You have THREE options for this paragraph: 1) Besides that associated with microbursts (a separate discussion topic), research and discuss two or more other specific hazards to aircraft taking off, landing in, or flying through, a severe thunderstorm. OR 2) research and discuss three or more potential safety hazards, damage to property, and disruption to everyday human activity caused by severe thunderstorms. OR 3) Relate a personal experience involving a severe thunderstorm to the discussion in paragraphs 1 and 2.

2. After reading the Chapter 14 topic Thunderstorms and Flooding, and the Focus Topic The Terrifying Flash Flood in the Big Thompson Canyon, construct an engaging 3-paragraph initial post that addresses the following points:

• Paragraph 1: Define a flash flood, and discuss the aspects of thunderstorms that cause flash flooding. (graphics will add greatly to the discussion here)
• Paragraph 2: On the National Weather Service’s Flood Safety website, research and summarize the dangerous aspects of flash floods to humans.  Include in your summary the meaning behind the National Weather Service slogan “Turn around, don’t drown!”.
• Paragraph 3:You have TWO options for this paragraph: 1) research and summarize an historic US flash flooding event OR 2) Relate a personal experience involving a flash flood to the discussion in paragraphs 1 and 2.

3. After completing the module 8 mini-lesson The Hazards of Microbursts in Aviation, construct an engaging 3-paragraph initial post that addresses the following points:

• Paragraph 1:Summarize the physical processes by which microbursts develop, based on the concepts presented in module 8. (graphics will add greatly to the discussion here)
• Paragraph 2:Summarize the specific aviation-related hazard associated with microbursts. (graphics will add greatly to the discussion here)
• Paragraph 3: You have TWO options for this paragraph:  1) Research and summarize an actual aircraft incident related to microbursts.  OR  2) Research and outline specific procedures and/or detection systems utilized to mitigate the potential dangers to aircraft from microbursts.

4. After reading about supercell thunderstorms and tornadoes in Chapters 14 and 15, construct an engaging 3-paragraph initial post that addresses the following points regarding tornado development:

• Paragraph 1:Describe the structure of supercell thunderstorms, their characteristics, and the specific atmospheric conditions required for their development. Your discussion here should include the role of vertical wind shear.
• Paragraph 2: Define the region of the United States known as “tornado alley”, and, tying in the discussion in paragraph 1, explain why the development of supercell thunderstorms containing large tornadoes is more likely here than any other place on Earth. (graphics will add greatly to the discussion here)
• Paragraph 3:  You have TWO options for this paragraph:  1) Research and summarize an historic tornado outbreak , tying in your discussion from paragraphs 1 and 2, OR 2) Share a personal experience involving a tornadic supercell thunderstorm, tying in your discussion from paragraphs 1 and 2.