If you’re a native or a long-time inhabitant of the Southwest Florida coast, you are bound to know a thing or two about various tropical storms. But if you’re new to this area, you’d probably want to know more about tropical storm season and hurricane season, specifically, how to prepare for such storms.
Let’s talk about the difference
Both tropical storms and hurricanes are usually huge ones that are formed over the water, starting out as a low-pressure system called a tropical depression. When a tropical depression strengthens, the storm becomes a tropical storm. And if that storm continues to strengthen, the storm is classified as a hurricane.
So, what’s the main difference between a tropical storm and a hurricane? Wind speed!
But that’s not the only difference. Hurricanes are known for their iconic spiral shape with a small patch of clear sky in the centre, called the ‘eye’ which distinguishes it from other tropical storms. Hurricanes are usually formed due to the air spiralling inward into a counterclockwise direction. It is most intense at lower heights, but the circulation becomes weaker with height and finally turns clockwise near the top of the storm. They also tend to be more compact, smaller in diameter and far more intense than tropical storms.
For instance, when Irene hit New York City, it had lost its wind speed and was considered a tropical storm rather than a hurricane. It did not cause much damage in that region as compared to North Carolina where the wind speed was enough to categorize “Irene” as a hurricane.
Tropical storms are extremely low-pressure areas over the ocean with a cyclonic rotation of winds. Hurricanes are considered to be intense, cyclonic or rotating weather systems formed over oceans usually in the tropics due to the formation of low depression areas.
When the speed of the wind is between 39 mph to 73 mph, the tropical depression developed is classified as a tropical storm. However, when the wind speed exceeds 74 mph, it is called a hurricane. Hurricanes have been observed to be smaller in diameter than mid-latitude storms.
Hurricanes have a well-defined eye while tropical storms lack the presence of an eye.
Over the last several years, the United States has experienced several devastating hurricanes. They have resulted in great damage to the areas they have afflicted and left haunting memories in the minds of those who lived through them.
Hurricane season begins on June 1 and ends on November 30, although these severe storms can occur any time prior to or after the official season. Being prepared is the key, and having a survival kit can be extremely helpful in delivering comfort as well as aiding in survival. A kit may include bottled water, non-perishable foods, toilet paper, soap, flashlights and fresh batteries, warm blankets, change of clothing, and personal toiletries.
Becoming more aware will help you to know what to expect for in case of a hurricane. Becoming prepared will help you to get through the adverse time. Find out the time to learn all about hurricane season and what you need to do to protect yourself, the ones you love, and your property. To know more Visit.
