Cyclones

A cyclone is a weather phenomenon characterized by strong winds rotating around a low-pressure center. Cyclones can occur over both land and water, and they are known by different names in different regions of the world. In the North Atlantic and Northeast Pacific, they are called hurricanes, while in the Northwest Pacific, they are known as typhoons. In the South Pacific and Indian Ocean, they are referred to as cyclones.

Formation of Cyclones

Cyclones form when warm, moist air rises and creates an area of low pressure at the surface. As the warm air rises, it cools and condenses, forming clouds and releasing latent heat, which further fuels the storm. The Coriolis effect, caused by the Earth's rotation, then causes the winds to rotate around the center of the low-pressure system, creating the characteristic spiral pattern of a cyclone.

Characteristics of Cyclones

Cyclones are typically accompanied by heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surges, which can lead to flooding and significant damage to coastal areas. The intensity of a cyclone is measured using the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, which categorizes cyclones based on their sustained wind speeds.

Study Guide

1. What is a cyclone and what are the different names for cyclones in various regions?
2. Describe the process of cyclone formation, including the role of warm, moist air and the Coriolis effect.
3. Explain the key characteristics of cyclones, including the associated weather conditions and the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.
4. Research a specific cyclone that has had a significant impact on a particular region and present a case study outlining its effects and the response measures taken.