Question

The average annual number of deaths from tornadoes in the United States from 1920 to 2004 was 136 people. The long-term average annual number of tornado deaths has ___________________.

A. gradually increased over the last 85 years because of U.S. population increases
B. gradually decreased over the last 85 years
C. changed very little over the past 85 years
D. fluctuated widely, but with no real trend

Answer 1

The average annual number of tornado deaths has changed very little over the past 85 years, despite the increase in the US population, possibly due to improved weather forecasting, emergency communication, and building practices.

Step-by-step explanation:

The long-term average annual number of tornado deaths in the United States has changed very little over the past 85 years, according to various historical data on extreme weather events and population trends. This finding is somewhat counterintuitive given the increase in the US population during this period. While there have been improvements in weather forecasting, emergency communication, and building practices, these have possibly helped to mitigate the potential for higher casualty rates, countering the impact of a greater population density. Thus, the correct answer to the student's question is C. changed very little over the past 85 years.