Understanding Tropical Cyclones: Formation, Impacts, and Naming Conventions
What are Tropical Cyclones?
Tropical cyclones are intense weather systems that originate over warm tropical oceans. They are characterized by low atmospheric pressure and a circular storm pattern.
Depending on their location and strength, tropical cyclones are referred to by different names:
- Hurricane (Atlantic and Eastern Pacific Ocean)
- Typhoon (Western Pacific Ocean)
- Tropical Storm (Atlantic and Eastern Pacific Ocean)
- Cyclonic Storm (Indian Ocean)
- Tropical Cyclone (General term)
Formation of Tropical Cyclones
Tropical cyclones form when warm ocean water evaporates and rises, creating low-pressure areas at the ocean's surface.
As more warm, moist air is drawn into the low-pressure area, the rising air cools and condenses, releasing heat and energy that fuels the storm.
A rotating circulation pattern develops as the rising air is deflected by the Earth's Coriolis force.
Impacts of Tropical Cyclones
Tropical cyclones can have devastating impacts, including:
- High winds and storm surges
- Heavy rainfall and flooding
- Tornadoes
- Coastal erosion
- Loss of life and property damage
Seasonal Variations
Tropical cyclones are warm-season phenomena, with peak frequency occurring after the maximum in solar radiation.
In the Atlantic Ocean, the hurricane season typically runs from June 1 to November 30.
In the Pacific Ocean, the typhoon season varies by region, but generally occurs from May to November.
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