What is the primary purpose of scientists creating maps that show where natural hazards like hurricanes have occurred in the past?

To change the path of future hurricanes.

To identify patterns and understand which areas have a higher risk.

To prove that these events happen completely randomly.

To count the exact number of buildings damaged.

A community planner examines a map showing that their coastal town is in an area where many hurricanes have made landfall over the last century. What is the most logical action to take based on this information?

Assume a hurricane will not strike again for a long time.

Focus all resources on preparing for earthquakes instead.

Relocate the entire town to a new inland location immediately.

Develop and improve emergency plans specifically for hurricanes.

In the Arctic Ocean near the North Pole.

In the Caribbean Sea during the summer.

In the Gulf of Mexico in early autumn.

In the tropical Atlantic Ocean.

Stop the natural hazard from ever happening again.

Predict the exact date and time of the next event.

Forecast which areas are more likely to be affected in the future.

Change the climate of a high-risk region to make it safer.

Build stronger houses in the area.

Predict the size of the next eruption.

Gather data on the locations and dates of past eruptions.

Try to stop the volcano from erupting.