What is a Tropical Cyclone?

Intense Circular Storm

A tropical cyclone is an intense circular storm that originates over warm tropical oceans and is characterized by low atmospheric pressure, strong winds, and a spiral arrangement of thunderstorms.

Rapidly Rotating Storm System

Tropical cyclones are rapidly rotating storm systems with a low-pressure center and a closed low-level atmospheric circulation. The winds in a tropical cyclone can reach speeds of up to 150 miles per hour, and the storm can produce torrential rains and flooding.

Origin in Warm Tropical Oceans

Tropical cyclones form over warm tropical oceans, where the water temperature is at least 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The warm water provides the energy that drives the storm.

More TCs in the Philippines

More tropical cyclones enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) than anywhere else in the world. This is because the Philippines is located in a region of the western Pacific Ocean that is particularly favorable for tropical cyclone formation.

Annihilating Coastal Areas

Tropical cyclones are extremely dangerous storms that can cause widespread damage and loss of life. They can produce high winds, torrential rains, and flooding that can destroy homes, businesses, and infrastructure.

Warm-Core Low-Pressure Systems

Tropical cyclones are warm-core low-pressure systems. This means that the air in the center of the storm is warmer than the air surrounding it. The warm air rises, creating a low-pressure area at the center of the storm.

Spiral Inflow and Outflow

Tropical cyclones have a spiral inflow of mass at the bottom level and a spiral outflow at the top level. The inflow of air at the bottom level provides the energy that drives the storm, while the outflow of air at the top level helps to maintain the low pressure at the center of the storm.