Hurricanes and typhoons are different names for the same type of intense tropical storm with sustained winds exceeding 119 km/hThe only difference between them is the region in which they are formed:
- Hurricane: It is called this in the Atlantic Ocean and in the northeast Pacific.
- Typhoon: This is how it is known in the northwest Pacific Ocean.
- Cyclone: It is used in the Indian Ocean and the South Pacific.
These weather systems are characterized by intense thunderstorm and rain activity, accompanied by strong winds and storm surges. For more details on how these phenomena work, it is useful to review the information on What is a hurricane?.
How are these phenomena formed?
Hurricanes and typhoons are born in warm ocean waters and require certain factors for their formation:
- Water temperature: It must be above 26,5°C to provide enough energy.
- Warm, humid air: Promotes cloud convection.
- Earth's Rotation: Generates the spiral movement of storms.
- Steady winds: They must allow the storm to gather without being interrupted.
As these systems gain strength, they evolve through several stages:
- Tropical wave: A disturbance in the atmosphere with the potential to develop.
- Tropical depression: Winds less than 63 km/h.
- Tropical storm: Winds between 63 and 118 km/h.
- Hurricane or typhoon: Winds over 119 km/h.
To better understand how a typhoon is formed, you can check out the article on How a typhoon is formed.
Classification and danger
The intensity of a hurricane is measured by the Saffir-Simpson scale, which classifies these phenomena into five categories:
- 1 Category: Winds between 119 and 153 km/h. Minor damage.
- 2 Category: Winds between 154 and 177 km/h. Moderate damage.
- 3 Category: Winds between 178 and 208 km/h. Severe damage.
- 4 Category: Winds between 209 and 251 km/h. Extensive destruction.
- 5 Category: Winds greater than 252 km/h. Catastrophic destruction.
It is important to be informed about The most destructive typhoons and hurricanes in recent years, as this helps us understand the magnitude of its impact.
The impact of climate change
Scientists warn that Global warming is intensifying these phenomena., making them more frequent and powerful. Rising ocean temperatures provide more energy to hurricanes and typhoons, allowing them to strengthen quickly.
In addition, rising sea levels cause more destructive storm surges, exacerbating the impacts on coastal communities. Climate models indicate that we will see more intense storms in the future, with greater potential to cause flooding. To understand more about this phenomenon, see the article discussing the effects of rising sea levels. space hurricanes.
How to prepare for these phenomena
Living in an area prone to hurricanes or typhoons requires taking preventive measures:
- Evacuate if necessary: Always follow weather alerts and evacuation orders.
- Stock up on supplies: Water, non-perishable food, flashlights and batteries.
- Securing housing: Reinforce doors and windows, avoid leaving loose objects outside.
- Emergency plan: Have a meeting point and emergency contacts.
In the event of a typhoon approaching, it is essential to stay on top of the news, as evidenced by the mandatory evacuation of people due to the arrival of the typhoon. Typhoon Talim in Japan, where more than 600,000 people were evacuated.
Hurricanes and typhoons will continue to be a constant threat to many regions of the world. However, thanks to advances in meteorology and population preparedness, We can mitigate its effects and reduce the impact on our communities. Now more than ever, it is vital to understand these phenomena and take steps to protect ourselves from their inevitable arrival.
