What Is Storm Surge and Why Is It So Dangerous? — Reading Comprehension

Grades

About This Reader

This NGSS-aligned reading passage introduces middle school students to the concept of storm surge, a major hazard caused by hurricanes. The passage explains how storm surge forms when hurricane winds push ocean water onto land, especially during high tide. It covers how geography and storm strength influence flood severity, and why coastal areas are at high risk. With clear vocabulary and real-world examples like Hurricane Katrina, students learn how preparation, forecasting, and protective structures like levees and sea walls can save lives. This text supports science comprehension and aligns with NGSS Earth and Space Science standards.

CONTENT PREVIEW

When a hurricane approaches land, one of the biggest threats is something called a storm surge. A storm surge is a fast rise in sea level caused by the strong winds of a storm pushing ocean water toward the coast. This wall of water can flood towns, destroy buildings, and wash away roads. It is often the deadliest part of a hurricane.

Storm surge happens when powerful hurricane winds push ocean water onshore. The water level rises much higher than the normal tides. If the storm hits during high tide, the flooding can be even worse. In some cases, water levels can rise over 20 feet above normal sea level.

Several factors affect how bad a storm surge can be. These include the strength of the hurricane, the shape of the coastline, and how fast the storm is moving. Flat, low-lying areas are at the greatest risk. Places like the Gulf Coast in the United States are especially vulnerable because of their geography.

Storm surge is dangerous because it happens quickly and with great force. It can knock down buildings, carry cars away, and trap people who did not evacuate in time. That’s why scientists and emergency officials use storm forecasts and evacuation zones to warn people early.

Understanding storm surge helps communities prepare and reduce the damage. Engineers build sea walls and levees in some areas to protect against flooding. Knowing the risk of storm surge is a key part of staying safe during hurricanes.

Fun Fact: During Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the storm surge reached 27.8 feet in Mississippi—the highest ever recorded in the U.S.!

What is a storm surge?

A burst of lightningSudden snowfallA rise in sea level caused by storm windsHeavy rainfall during a storm

What causes a storm surge?

Cold air mixing with warm airWind pushing ocean water inlandEarthquakes under the seaTornadoes touching down

When is storm surge flooding the worst?

During low tideDuring sunsetDuring high tideDuring dry seasons

Which part of a hurricane is often the deadliest?

The eyeRainbandsStorm surgeThunder

What areas are most at risk from storm surge?

MountainsCities far inlandFlat coastal areasForests

How can storm surge be prevented or reduced?

By cutting down treesBy building sea walls and leveesBy planting cropsBy driving cars away

What is the main idea of this passage?

Hurricanes are less dangerous than tornadoesStorm surge is a major hurricane threat and needs preparationOcean water helps plants growEvacuations are never needed

If a storm is coming during high tide, what should people expect?

Lower water levelsNo dangerGreater flood riskSnow