To determine which weather system most likely caused the most damage based on the information provided, we should consider the characteristics that typically lead to severe weather impacts, specifically related to hurricanes.
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System Characteristics:
- System A is described as being more spread out with higher pressure, which typically doesn't favor the development of hurricanes since hurricanes form in low-pressure areas where warm air rises.
- System B, on the other hand, has low pressure and an ocean temperature over 82 °F, both of which are favorable conditions for hurricane formation. This system also produced much more rainfall.
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Hurricane Formation:
- Hurricanes require warm ocean water (typically above 82°F) and low-pressure systems to develop. A system with more rainfall and favorable temperatures is more likely to intensify into a hurricane.
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Impact of Damage:
- Systems that become hurricanes generally cause more destruction due to high winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges, resulting in flooding and other hazards.
Given this analysis, the most thorough response is:
A. System B, because low pressure and an ocean temperature over 82 °F caused the system to become a hurricane. It also had much more rainfall.
This option highlights that System B's characteristics—low pressure, high temperatures, and significant rainfall—make it the most likely candidate for causing substantial damage.