Hurricanes are part of a family of weather systems known as “tropical cyclones.” A hurricane begins its life as a disorganized system which forms over warm, tropical waters in the Atlantic (or Pacific) Ocean.
When the storm system becomes more organized, it is classified as a “tropical depression,” and given a number by the National Hurricane Center (in Miami, Florida). If the winds in a tropical depression grow in intensity (strength) to 40 miles per hour, it is re-classified as a “tropical storm,” and it receives a name.
When winds in the storm reach 75 miles per hour, it is upgraded to a hurricane.
The winds of a hurricane are structured around a central “eye”, which is an area that is free of clouds and remain relatively calm. Around this “eye” area, storm clouds wrap in a counter-clockwise motion. This “eye wall” of clouds, wind and rain, is the most destructive part of the storm. In fact, it is the eye wall that creates the eye, since the rapid spinning clouds in the wall reduce the pressure in the eye and draws out any clouds that may be there.
How do hurricanes form?
Hurricanes gather heat and energy through contact with warm ocean waters of 80 degrees Fahrenheit (26.7 degrees Celsius) or warmer. Evaporation from the seawater increases their power.
When hurricanes come onto land, the heavy rain, strong winds and large waves can damage buildings, trees and cars -- among other objects.
Saffir-Simpson Scale:
The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale is a rating system based on the hurricane's intensity. Numbered 1 to 5, it is used to give an estimate of the potential property damage and flooding expected from a hurricane landfall.
Wind speed and storm surge (depth of water damage from coastline) are the main factors in the scale.
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