Final answer:
Storm surges are caused by strong onshore winds during a storm or hurricane, leading to elevated sea levels and potentially catastrophic flooding in coastal regions. They are dangerous due to their capacity to inundate land, damage property, and endanger lives.
Step-by-step explanation:
Storm surges are a sudden rise in sea level in coastal areas during a storm or hurricane, primarily caused by strong winds blowing onshore. Contrary to some misconceptions, storm surges are not caused by underwater earthquakes (which can cause tsunamis), the gravitational pull of the moon and sun, volcanic eruptions, or water temperature changes alone. It's the intense wind of a storm that can push the water toward the shore, causing it to pile up and elevate the sea level above its normal state. This elevation of the water level can lead to severe flooding in coastal areas, causing damage to infrastructure, erosion, and can pose a significant risk to human lives.
Storm surges are particularly dangerous because they have the potential to flood large coastal areas, leading to significant loss of life and substantial property damage. Inhabitants of low-lying areas are especially at risk since even a moderate surge can submerge entire communities. Moreover, storm surges can carry debris, contribute to coastal erosion, and contaminate freshwater resources, amplifying the humanitarian and environmental impact of the storm.