Early indications of the approach of a hurricane may be all of the following EXCEPT __________.

Correct Answer: Option A — short confused swells

Early hurricane indicators include cirrus clouds (mare's tails), a pumping barometer, and fine mist-like rain. Short, confused swells are not an early indicator; rather, they typically develop as the storm approaches closer, whereas the first sign is usually a long, low-frequency swell originating from the storm's distant center.