Final answer:
The most destruction caused by a hurricane is typically due to storm surge, a sudden rise in sea level caused by strong onshore winds, leading to significant coastal flooding and damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct option is E:
The most destruction caused by a hurricane is due to E) storm surge. Hurricanes are massive storm systems that form over warm ocean waters and often move toward land. The impact of hurricanes can be devastating due to several factors. One of the primary sources of destruction is the storm surge, which is a sudden rise in sea level in coastal areas during a storm or hurricane caused by strong winds blowing onshore. This phenomenon can lead to significant flooding and damage to coastal infrastructures, such as houses, roads, and bridges.
While high winds, hail, lightning, and even tornadoes can be associated with hurricanes, it is the storm surge that often causes the greatest destruction, particularly in low-lying coastal areas. The surge is capable of inundating vast areas, sweeping away cars, eroding beaches, and demolishing homes and businesses. Its power is compounded by the fact that it is usually preceded by heavy rains, leading to softened ground that is less able to withstand the force of incoming water.