Cyclones Flashcards
Tropical cyclones only form where seawater temperatures are above___?
26.5°C
What is their geographical distribution?
in the tropics starting between 5° and 30° of latitude.
When do they often occur?
summer and autumn
Three names for a cyclone?
Cyclone, Hurricane and Typhoon
Three characteristics of cyclones?
Low pressure, Rotation and Structure
What is the name of Earth’s spin?
Coriolis Force
How do Tropical cyclones intensify?
- Warm water temperature
- Low wind shear
- High humidity
What makes Tropical Cyclones dissipate?
- When they reach land
- Sea water cools down
- If it collides with separate weather systems with opposite wind directions
What scale classifies cyclones?
The Saffir-Simpson scale
What are secondary hazards of Cyclones?
- Storm Surges
- Landslides
- Coastal Flooding
What damage can a cyclone have?
Structural, Mental, Physical and Financial
Why are satellites used?
To spot and track cyclones
Why are Forecasters used?
To predict storm behaviour and characteristics
What are the vulnerability factors?
Physical - low-lying coastal areas
Social - Poorer regions = densely populated
Economic - Wealthier countries have better tracking technology and thus can be better prepared
