Common questions about Storm

Short answers, pulled from the story.

What is the origin of the English word storm?

The English word storm originates from the Proto-Germanic sturmaz, meaning noise or tumult. This linguistic root hints at the primal human fear of the roaring atmosphere.

How did the Sea Venture shipwreck of 1609 influence history?

The Sea Venture shipwreck of 1609 carried Sir Thomas Gates and his crew near Bermuda during a hurricane that raged for nearly two days. This event inadvertently led to the colonization of Bermuda and inspired William Shakespeare to write The Tempest.

What are the specific characteristics of a blizzard?

A blizzard is defined by gale-force winds and heavy snow accumulating at a rate of at least 5 centimeters per hour. This weather phenomenon is distinct from other storm types like derechos or ice storms.

When did the Mariner 9 spacecraft arrive on Mars to observe dust storms?

The Mariner 9 spacecraft arrived on the 14th of November 1971 to find the atmosphere of Mars thick with a planet-wide robe of dust. The surface of Mars was totally obscured, forcing the computer to delay imaging for months until the dust settled.

What is the largest hailstone recorded in the United States?

The largest recorded hailstone in the United States fell on the 23rd of July 2010 in Vivian, South Dakota. This hailstone weighed 2.25 pounds and caused fatal head trauma.

When was the Great Storm of 1987 that hit southern England and northern France?

The Great Storm of 1987 hit southern England and northern France on the night of 15 to the 16th of October 1987. This event is key to a scene in A. S. Byatt's Booker Prize-winning novel Possession.