Tropical cyclone
Tropical cyclone
A Tropical cyclone (pronunciation: /ˈtrɒpɪkəl ˈsaɪkləʊn/) is a rapidly rotating storm system characterized by a low-pressure center, a closed low-level atmospheric circulation, strong winds, and a spiral arrangement of thunderstorms that produce heavy rain and, in some cases, tornadoes.
Etymology
The term "Tropical cyclone" is derived from the word "tropical", which refers to the geographical origin of these systems, which form almost exclusively over tropical seas, and "cyclone", from the Greek "κυκλών", meaning "whirling, moving in a circle".
Related terms
- Tropical depression: A tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of 38 mph (33 knots) or less.
- Tropical storm: A tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph (34 to 63 knots).
- Hurricane: A tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of 74 mph (64 knots) or more.
- Typhoon: A mature tropical cyclone that develops in the western part of the North Pacific Ocean.
- Cyclone: A large scale air mass that rotates around a strong center of low atmospheric pressure.
- Storm surge: A rise in sea level that occurs during tropical cyclones, significantly increasing the potential for coastal flooding.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Tropical cyclone
- Wikipedia's article - Tropical cyclone
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