Recently, the Typhoon Koppu has captured worldwide attention after causing at least 4 deaths in the northern Philippines and affect more than 200,000 people in the country. This event reminds us of the importance of understanding this devastating weather phenomenon and the process of typhoon formation. In this article, we'll explore all aspects of typhoons in depth.
What is a typhoon?
Un typhoon is essentially a tropical cyclone that develops in the western Pacific Ocean. Like a hurricane, its formation is associated with areas of low pressure; however, the term 'typhoon' is used specifically to refer to these systems in the western Pacific region. If this phenomenon occurs in the eastern Pacific, it is called a hurricane. This indicates that both typhoons and hurricanes are the same meteorological phenomenon, but named differently depending on their geographic location.
How does a typhoon form?
The formation of a typhoon is a complex process that involves several atmospheric factors. In general, it is established when a atmospheric wave in the Pacific Ocean begins to rotate in the direction of the planet's rotation. This results in high pressures on the outside of the stream and low pressures in the core. Such a phenomenon can be classified as a typhoon if its rotation speed reaches 120 km/h.
They are described below the necessary factors for the formation of a typhoon:
- Water temperature: It is crucial that the ocean surface temperature is higher than the 26°CThis favors a high evaporation that generates water vapor, which contributes to the formation of clouds by convection.
- Low wind shear: Wind shear refers to the change in wind speed and direction at different altitudes. It is essential that this shear be low to prevent decoupling between the upper and lower parts of the convective system.
- High levels of relative humidity: High relative humidity is required from the surface to high levels of the troposphere for a typhoon to form and persist, as detailed in the article on how a cyclone forms.
- Presence of a wave at height: These atmospheric waves moving across the tropics can be amplified and, along with the other factors mentioned above, lead to the formation of a tropical cyclone.
Furthermore, the coriolis force It is an essential element in the formation of typhoons, which is zero at the equator and increases toward the poles. Therefore, typhoons cannot form at latitudes close to the equator, although they are common within the tropical region.
Typhoon season
La most prone season for the formation of typhoons covers from the end of the month of June until the beginning of XNUMXth. During these months, rising temperatures in ocean waters contribute to the emergence of various spirals that can develop into typhoons. It is important to mention that, as a result of the global warming, an increase in the frequency of these natural phenomena has been observed.
Impact of typhoons and climate change
Although typhoons are naturally occurring phenomena, evidence suggests that the climate change is intensifying in frequency and impact. As ocean temperatures rise, the energy available to fuel these cyclones increases, which can lead to stronger and more destructive typhoons. The combination of intense winds, heavy rains, and storm surges causes devastating floods and the destruction of infrastructure, especially in coastal areas where many communities are vulnerable, as mentioned in the article on the names of hurricanes.
Typhoon Classification
Typhoons are classified into different categories depending on their wind speed, following the RSMC Tokyo intensity scale:
- Tropical depression: Sustained winds less than 61 km/h.
- Tropical storm: Sustained winds between 62 and 88 km/h.
- Severe tropical storm: Sustained winds between 89 and 117 km/h.
- Typhoon: Sustained winds between 118 and 156 km/h.
- Very strong typhoon: Sustained winds between 157 and 193 km/h.
- Violent typhoon: Sustained winds exceeding 193 km/h.
Differences between typhoons and hurricanes
The main difference between the terms 'typhoon' and 'hurricane' is based on the geographic location of the phenomenon. Both terms refer to a tropical cyclone, but are used according to the region of the planet where they occur. While they are called typhoons In the western Pacific, they are called Hurricanes when they form in the Atlantic, the Caribbean, or the eastern Pacific. To better understand these differences, it is recommended to consult the article on hurricanes and typhoons.
Typhoons are complex meteorological phenomena that require specific conditions for their formation and have become increasingly destructive as the climate changes. As we continue to confront global warming, it is crucial to understand their nature and the impact they can have on our lives. Safety and preparedness are essential to mitigate the devastating effects these tropical cyclones can cause.
