USCG Meteorology Practice Exam

In the context of meteorology, hurricanes are associated with areas of low atmospheric pressure. As a hurricane approaches, the barometric pressure in the vicinity of the observer will begin to decrease. This decrease in pressure indicates that the atmospheric conditions are becoming more unsettled and that a significant weather event, such as a hurricane, is moving closer.

As the hurricane approaches, the prevailing air is drawn towards the center of the storm, which leads to a lowering of pressure. This phenomenon is a crucial indicator of the hurricane's influence on the local weather environment. The gradual fall in barometric pressure can be observed over time, signaling the increasing likelihood of deteriorating weather conditions.

In contrast, a rise in pressure would suggest the approach of a high-pressure system, which typically brings calm weather rather than a storm. A constant pressure reading would imply no significant weather changes, and fluctuations would generally indicate turbulent or unstable weather patterns unrelated to the steady movement of a large storm system like a hurricane. Thus, the correct response reflects the typical behavior of the barometer as a hurricane approaches, highlighting the relationship between atmospheric pressure and storm systems.