What is a Tropical Cyclone?

Definition

A tropical cyclone is a rapidly rotating storm system with a low-pressure center, a closed low-level atmospheric circulation, strong winds, and a spiral arrangement of thunderstorms.

Characteristics

• Tropical cyclones are intense circular storms that originate over warm tropical oceans.
• They are characterized by low atmospheric pressure, high winds, and heavy rainfall.
• Tropical cyclones are classified on the Saffir-Simpson scale based on their wind speed.

Types

There are two main types of tropical cyclones: typhoons and hurricanes.

• Typhoons occur in the Northwest Pacific Ocean.
• Hurricanes occur in the North Atlantic Ocean, the Northeast Pacific Ocean, and the South Pacific Ocean.

Impacts

Tropical cyclones can have a devastating impact on coastal areas.

• They can cause high winds, storm surge, and flooding.
• They can also cause landslides and mudslides.
• Tropical cyclones can result in widespread power outages and loss of infrastructure.

Conclusion

Tropical cyclones are a major threat to coastal communities around the world.

It is important to be prepared for tropical cyclones by having an evacuation plan and an emergency kit.