Tropical Storm Bilis facts for kids
Tropical Storm Bilis was a strong tropical storm that caused a lot of damage and sadness in China in July 2006. It killed over 500 people in the provinces of Fujian, Guangdong, and Hunan. Bilis was a powerful storm that brought very heavy rain and strong winds, leading to floods and landslides.
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What is a Tropical Storm?
A tropical storm is like a smaller version of a hurricane or typhoon. It's a type of powerful weather system that forms over warm ocean waters. These storms have strong winds that spin around a central "eye." They also bring huge amounts of rain. When a tropical storm gets even stronger, it can become a typhoon (in Asia) or a hurricane (in the Americas).
How Tropical Storms Get Their Energy
Tropical storms get their energy from warm ocean water. When the water is at least 26.5 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit) and deep enough, it helps the storm grow. The warm, moist air rises, cools, and forms clouds. More air rushes in to replace the rising air, creating a swirling motion. This swirling air gets faster and faster, forming the storm.
Bilis's Journey and Impact
Tropical Storm Bilis started forming in the Pacific Ocean. It moved west, gaining strength as it traveled over warm waters.
Bilis Hits the Philippines
Before reaching China, Bilis first affected the Philippines. It brought heavy rains and strong winds to many islands. Public storm signals were raised to warn people about the danger. Even though it didn't make a direct hit as a very strong typhoon, it still caused floods and disrupted daily life.
Landfall in China
Bilis made landfall, meaning it hit the land, in China on July 14, 2006. It struck the southeastern coast, bringing its most destructive power there. The provinces of Fujian, Guangdong, and Hunan were hit the hardest.
Heavy Rains and Flooding
The biggest problem caused by Bilis was the extreme rainfall. Some areas received more rain in a few days than they usually get in months. This led to widespread flooding. Rivers overflowed their banks, and entire towns were submerged under water. The floods destroyed homes, farms, and roads.
Landslides and Damage
The heavy rain also made the ground very soft and unstable. This caused dangerous landslides, where large amounts of mud and rock slid down hillsides. Landslides buried homes and roads, making it hard for rescue workers to reach people who needed help. Many people lost their homes and belongings because of the storm.
Rescue and Recovery Efforts
After the storm passed, many people worked together to help those affected. Rescue teams searched for survivors, and aid organizations provided food, water, and shelter. It took a long time for the affected areas to recover and rebuild after such a powerful storm.
Staying Safe During Storms
Tropical storms like Bilis remind us how powerful nature can be. It's important to know what to do if a storm is coming to your area.
- Listen to Warnings: Always pay attention to weather forecasts and warnings from official sources.
- Prepare a Kit: Have an emergency kit ready with water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit.
- Stay Indoors: If a storm is happening, stay inside a safe building and away from windows.
- Evacuate if Told: If authorities tell you to leave your home, do so immediately.
Images for kids
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TRMM image of Bilis, showing its uneven rainfall distribution.
