Origin of Tropical Cyclones

Tropical cyclones, also known as hurricanes or typhoons depending on their location, originate over warm ocean waters. They typically form in regions where sea surface temperatures exceed 26.5°C (about 80°F). These warm waters provide the necessary heat and moisture that fuel the storm.

Formation Process

1. Warm Water: Cyclones begin to develop over warm, moist air. As the water vapor rises, it cools and condenses, releasing latent heat.
2. Low-Pressure Area: This process creates a low-pressure area, leading to further air movement. Surrounding air rushes in to fill this low-pressure zone, creating winds.
3. Coriolis Effect: The Earth’s rotation causes the winds to spiral, a phenomenon known as the Coriolis effect, which is essential for the cyclone’s rotation.

Characteristics of Tropical Cyclones

• Structure: A tropical cyclone consists of a well-defined center called the “eye,” surrounded by a wall of clouds and intense winds.
• Wind Speed: They have sustained winds of at least 74 miles per hour (119 kilometers per hour).
• Size: Cyclones can range from a few hundred to over a thousand kilometers in diameter.
• Lifespan: Typically, they last from a few days to over a week, depending on environmental conditions.

Impact

Tropical cyclones can lead to devastating impacts, including flooding, strong winds, and storm surges, which can affect coastal communities significantly.