TC Flashcards
What is a tropical cyclone?
A tropical cyclone is a rapidly rotating storm system characterized by a center of low pressure, a closed low-level atmospheric circulation, and strong winds.
What are the different categories of tropical cyclones?
Tropical cyclones are categorized as tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes (or typhoons in the western Pacific) based on their wind speeds.
True or False: Tropical cyclones can only form over warm ocean waters.
True
What is the minimum wind speed for a storm to be classified as a tropical storm?
The minimum wind speed for a storm to be classified as a tropical storm is 39 mph (63 km/h).
Fill in the blank: The area of low pressure at the center of a tropical cyclone is called the _____
eye
What is the Saffir-Simpson scale used for?
The Saffir-Simpson scale is used to classify hurricanes based on their sustained wind speeds and potential damage.
What is the highest category on the Saffir-Simpson scale?
Category 5
True or False: Tropical cyclones can occur in both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
True
What meteorological conditions are necessary for the formation of tropical cyclones?
Warm ocean water, atmospheric instability, high humidity in the mid-troposphere, and low vertical wind shear.
What is the ‘storm surge’ associated with tropical cyclones?
A storm surge is an abnormal rise in sea level caused by the strong winds and low pressure of a tropical cyclone.
Multiple Choice: What is the primary driver of a tropical cyclone’s intensity? A) Ocean temperature B) Wind shear C) Atmospheric pressure D) All of the above
D) All of the above
True or False: The eye of a tropical cyclone is typically calm with clear skies.
True
What is the term for the outer rainbands of a tropical cyclone?
Rainbands
Fill in the blank: The _____ is the part of the tropical cyclone where the most severe weather occurs.
eyewall
What is the primary difference between a hurricane and a typhoon?
The primary difference is the region where they occur; hurricanes form in the Atlantic and Northeast Pacific, while typhoons form in the Northwest Pacific.
What is the role of the Coriolis effect in tropical cyclone formation?
The Coriolis effect causes the rotation of the storm, allowing it to develop into a cyclone.
True or False: Tropical cyclones can weaken after making landfall.
True
What is the typical lifespan of a tropical cyclone?
Tropical cyclones typically last from a few days to over a week.
What factors can lead to the dissipation of a tropical cyclone?
Cool ocean waters, land interaction, and increased wind shear.
Fill in the blank: The _____ is a region of the ocean where tropical cyclones are most likely to form.
tropical warm core
What does the term ‘hurricane season’ refer to?
Hurricane season refers to the time of year when tropical cyclones are most likely to form in a specific region.
Multiple Choice: Which ocean basin has the most active hurricane season? A) Atlantic B) Pacific C) Indian D) Southern
A) Atlantic
What is the primary purpose of tropical cyclone forecasting?
To predict the path, intensity, and potential impacts of the storm to ensure public safety.
True or False: Satellite imagery is a key tool in monitoring tropical cyclones.
True
Fill in the blank: A tropical cyclone’s _____ is defined by the area where winds exceed 39 mph.
tropical storm force wind radius
What is one of the main hazards associated with tropical cyclones?
Flooding due to heavy rainfall.
What is the significance of the ‘warm core’ structure in tropical cyclones?
The warm core structure supports the cyclone’s vertical development and strengthens the system.
True or False: Tropical cyclones can contribute to long-term climate changes.
False
What do meteorologists use to track the movement of tropical cyclones?
Meteorologists use satellite data, radar, and weather models to track tropical cyclones.
Fill in the blank: The _____ is the term for the area where tropical cyclones lose strength after making landfall.
dissipation zone
