When a hurricane nears land, what causes the most damage?

Responses

wind
wind

storm surge
storm surge

rain
rain

low air pressure
low air pressure

All of the mentioned factors can contribute to causing damage during a hurricane. However, the most significant and immediate source of damage during a hurricane is often the combination of strong winds and storm surge. The high winds, which can reach extreme speeds, can uproot trees, damage buildings, and cause flying debris. Additionally, the storm surge, which is an abnormal rise of water along the coast, can lead to flooding and significant destruction of coastal infrastructure. While rain and low air pressure also play a role in affecting the severity and aftermath of a hurricane, it is typically the wind and storm surge that cause the bulk of the immediate damage.