Hurricane

Hurricanes are powerful tropical storms that form over warm ocean waters, primarily in the Atlantic and eastern Pacific Oceans. They are characterized by strong winds, heavy rain, storm surges, and often cause significant damage when they make landfall. Here’s an overview of key aspects of hurricanes:

1. Formation

Hurricanes develop from tropical disturbances in warm waters of at least 26.5°C (about 80°F). Warm, moist air rises, creating low pressure near the ocean surface, which causes more air to be drawn in. This cycle can form a well-organized system of rotating thunderstorms. If the wind speeds reach at least 74 mph (119 km/h), the storm becomes classified as a hurricane.

2. Structure

• Eye: The center of the hurricane, typically calm, with clear skies and low pressure.
• Eyewall: Surrounding the eye, this area has the strongest winds and heaviest rainfall.
• Rainbands: Spiral bands of thunderstorms extending outwards from the eye, causing heavy rain and gusty winds.

3. Saffir-Simpson Scale

Hurricanes are categorized based on wind speeds:

• Category 1: 74-95 mph (119-153 km/h)
• Category 2: 96-110 mph (154-177 km/h)
• Category 3: 111-129 mph (178-208 km/h) – Major hurricane
• Category 4: 130-156 mph (209-251 km/h) – Major hurricane
• Category 5: 157+ mph (252+ km/h) – Major hurricane

4. Impacts

Hurricanes can cause catastrophic damage, especially from:

• Storm surges: Elevated sea levels pushed inland by the storm’s winds, leading to flooding.
• Heavy rain: Causes inland flooding, landslides, and can affect areas far from the coast.
• High winds: Damages buildings, uproots trees, and disrupts power and communication networks.

5. Hurricane Season

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with peak activity typically between August and October. In the eastern Pacific, the season begins slightly earlier, from May 15 to November 30.

6. Naming

Hurricanes are named alphabetically from a pre-set list, alternating between male and female names. Names of particularly deadly or destructive hurricanes are retired from use.

Would you like to know more about specific hurricanes or how to stay prepared during hurricane season?