What is a Hurricane?

To put it simply, a hurricane is an extremely low-pressure compound thunderstorm, or storm system, that has been upgraded from a "tropical storm" due to its intensity. A tropical storm has sustained winds of less than 73 mph (about 118 kph), but anything above that causes the storm to be upgraded to a hurricane. Hurricanes may contain thunder, lightning, rain and wind gusts well over 100-200 mph (161-322 kph).

Hurricanes in the Northern Hemisphere rotate in a counter-clockwise direction, while storms from the Southern Hemisphere move clockwise. The latter type of storm is usually referred to as a typhoon.

Hurricanes grow in intensity due to the affects of air and ocean conditions, such as humidity and water temperature. Ocean water must be over 81° Fahrenheit (26.5° Celsius) to energize a hurricane. It is the heat from the water, combined with the humidity in the air, that powers the storm. Once a hurricane hits land, or cooler water temperatures, it quickly loses strength.

When just the right conditions are met, a storm can develop into a hurricanes within a matter of hours, although at times it can take up to several days. Some storms seem to fizzle out, but they may begin to build again as they move into warmer waters. Consequently, such storms must be watched carefully. A hurricane can cause catastrophic damage. Watches and warnings are put into effect as soon as feasible in order to warn people of impending danger and to give them a chance to evacuate or take precautions.

The strength of a hurricane is categorized in accordance with the Saffir-Simpson scale. This scale determines whether the storm should be labeled a category 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5. A category 1 is the lowest risk storm, while a category 5 is less common, but catastrophic if it makes landfall.

The National Hurricane Center observes weather conditions common with hurricane activity. Once those at the Center decide that such activity poses a possible danger for islands and coasts, with dangerous conditions that could affect a certain area within 36 hours, a hurricane watch or "advisory" is issued. Such advisories inform people and businesses of the hurricane's strength, location and path, giving them the earliest possible chance to take precautions or evacuate the area.

A hurricane warning means that the area under the warning can expect to see hurricane activity within the next 24 hours. A warning may be in effect even where winds are less than the standard 74 mph, if conditions present the risk of high waves and dangerous water levels. Once a warning has been issued, precautionary action should be taken calmly and immediately. A hurricane warning should be considered, and dealt with, as an emergency.

A hurricane is a powerful tropical cyclone characterized by a low-pressure center, high winds, and heavy rain. It forms over warm ocean waters when the air above the sea surface heats up, rises, and creates an area of lower pressure beneath it. As this air cools and condenses, it releases heat, which fuels the storm, causing wind speeds to increase. A storm is classified as a hurricane when wind speeds reach 74 miles per hour or higher.

Hurricanes are classified into five categories based on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. Category 1 hurricanes have winds between 74-95 mph and can cause some damage, while Category 5 hurricanes have winds exceeding 156 mph and can cause catastrophic damage. The scale provides an estimate of potential property damage and flooding expected along the coast from a hurricane landfall.

Hurricanes are unique because they draw their energy from warm ocean waters and maintain their power as long as they remain over these warm temperatures. Unlike other storms, hurricanes have a well-defined eye, extremely low barometric pressure, and a high-speed rotating structure of clouds called the eyewall. They can cause storm surges, widespread flooding, and significant wind damage far from their initial landfall.

Hurricanes most commonly affect coastal regions, particularly those along the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. The Pacific coast can also experience hurricanes, though they are less frequent. Hurricane season in the Atlantic typically runs from June 1 to November 30, with the peak period from August to October when ocean temperatures are warmest.

Hurricanes are named by the World Meteorological Organization using a predetermined list of names that alternate between male and female. Names are given to make communication easier, as using names is quicker and less error-prone than the older method of using latitude-longitude identification methods. When a hurricane causes significant damage, its name may be retired and replaced with another.

Individuals should create an emergency plan, build an emergency supply kit, and stay informed about the storm's path. It's crucial to know your evacuation zone and have a plan for where to go if an evacuation is ordered. Securing your home, such as boarding up windows and ensuring loose items are tied down or brought inside, can also mitigate damage. Always follow the advice of local authorities during a hurricane.