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Tropical Storm Matthew (2010) facts for kids

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Tropical Storm Matthew was a tropical storm that happened in September 2010. Even though it wasn't super strong, Matthew caused a lot of damage, costing nearly $2.6 billion. It was also linked to fewer than 130 deaths. At its strongest, the storm had winds of sixty miles per hour.

What Was Tropical Storm Matthew?

Tropical Storm Matthew was a weather event that formed in the Atlantic Ocean during the 2010 hurricane season. It was called a "tropical storm" because its winds were strong but not yet at hurricane strength. These types of storms get their energy from warm ocean waters.

When Did Matthew Happen?

Matthew formed in late September 2010. It moved across parts of the Caribbean Sea and Central America. Storms like Matthew are common during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1st to November 30th each year.

How Strong Was Matthew?

At its peak, Tropical Storm Matthew had winds of about 60 miles per hour (95 km/h). This is just below hurricane strength, which starts at 74 miles per hour. Even without becoming a hurricane, Matthew brought very heavy rain and strong winds to the areas it affected.

Where Did Matthew Cause Damage?

Tropical Storm Matthew caused a lot of damage in several countries. The storm's heavy rains led to widespread flooding and landslides. These events destroyed homes, roads, and farms.

Which Countries Were Affected?

Matthew mainly impacted countries in Central America, including Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala, and Mexico. These regions are often vulnerable to tropical storms because of their geography and climate.

What Kind of Damage Occurred?

The storm's heavy rainfall was the biggest problem. It caused rivers to overflow and led to mudslides on hillsides. Many people lost their homes, and important crops were ruined. The total cost of the damage was estimated to be around $2.6 billion. This shows how much even a "weak" storm can affect communities.

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Tropical Storm Matthew (2010) Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.