In this tracking hurricanes activity, students analyze real hurricane forecast maps to determine where a hurricane is likely to travel and which locations are at greatest risk. Perfect for a middle school weather activity or a natural hazards and disasters unit!
This activity focuses on the true intent of NGSS MS-ESS3-2 by having students evaluate patterns in hurricane prediction models, spaghetti maps, and forecast cones to make evidence-based decisions about storm path and potential impacts.
Please note:
- This activity is about hurricane track prediction, not how hurricanes form.
- This activity is designed for a middle school audience. Kids don’t have to use sophisticated data or make hurricane tracking predictions from prior knowledge – the activity “holds their hand” to it!
This resource includes:
- Background reading on how scientists use prediction models, satellites, weather balloons, ocean buoys, and hurricane hunter aircraft to forecast hurricane paths
- Reading comprehension worksheet to go along with the reading
- Two real-world hurricane case studies (Hurricane Laura and Hurricane Larry) with background information and forecast maps for each; one is a hurricane cone map and the other is a spaghetti map
- Map analysis questions for each of the two maps, including a CER question for each
Teacher Notes:
- Answer keys are always included.
- Please note that this tracking hurricanes activity is not editable.
- Save paper! A digital Google Slides version is included as an option to assign.
- NGSS MS-ESS3-2: Analyze and interpret data on natural hazards to forecast future catastrophic events and inform the development of technologies to mitigate their effects.
- NGSS MS-ESS2-5: Collect data to provide evidence for how the motions and complex interactions of air masses result in changes in weather conditions.
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