Definition

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.

It is an intense circular storm that originates over warm tropical oceans and can vary in speed, size, and intensity.

Synonyms

• Hurricane
• Typhoon

Characteristics

• Low pressure at the center
• Strong winds
• Spiral arrangement of thunderstorms
• Heavy rainfall
• Storm surge

Formation

1. Warm ocean waters (80°F or higher)
2. Pre-existing disturbance (such as a thunderstorm)
3. Favorable atmospheric conditions (low wind shear, high humidity)

Impact

• High winds
• Heavy rainfall
• Storm surge
• Flooding
• Infrastructure damage
• Loss of life

Regions

• Atlantic Ocean
• Eastern Pacific Ocean
• Western Pacific Ocean
• North Indian Ocean
• South Indian Ocean
• South Pacific Ocean

Tracking

Tropical cyclones are tracked by weather satellites, radar, and aircraft reconnaissance.

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) issues advisories on tropical cyclones in the Atlantic and Eastern Pacific Oceans.