UPSC Prelims 2005 Q135: Current Affairs – Disasters & Humanitarian Issues
In which one of the following countries did hundreds of people die in the year 2004 as a
result of flooding and mudslides triggered by Tropical Storm Jeanne?
- (a) Colombia
- (b) Haiti
- (c) Sudan
- (d) Ghana
Answer: (b) Haiti
Explanation
Tropical Storm Jeanne, 2004
| Country | Effect of Tropical Storm Jeanne |
|---|---|
| Haiti | Yes — floods and mudslides killed thousands in September 2004, notably at Gonaives |
| Colombia | No |
| Sudan | No |
| Ghana | No |
Tropical Storm Jeanne triggered deadly flooding and mudslides in Haiti in 2004.
Answer: (b) Haiti.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Colombia was not struck by Jeanne's floods.
- (b) CORRECT. Haiti suffered the floods and mudslides.
- (c) Incorrect. Sudan is far from the Atlantic storm track.
- (d) Incorrect. Ghana is in Africa, not in Jeanne's path.
Key point
Atlantic storms hit the Caribbean: Jeanne (2004, Haiti), Katrina (2005, USA).
Remember
Tropical Storm Jeanne killed hundreds in Haiti in 2004.
Common mistakes
- Choosing an African country because of floods.
- Confusing Jeanne with the tsunami of December 2004.
- Placing Haiti on the Pacific instead of the Caribbean.
Exam tip
Haiti is deforested, so storms cause deadly mudslides.
Sources
- National Hurricane Center (NOAA) — Tropical Cyclone Report: Hurricane Jeanne (13–28 September 2004)
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — Haiti