Things such as severe hurricanes or tornadoes.
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How did the early Spanish conquistadors react to hurricanes?
How did people in 18th century America predict/prepare for/survive hurricanes and tropical storms?
What was known in Europe/Asia about tornadoes prior to North American colonization?
What was it like when Americans first settled in the area know as "Tornado Alley"
Follow up question: how did the much colder New England winters impact colonists' fashion?