Tropical Revolving Storms Flashcards
1
Q
Where and when do tropical revolving storms occur?
A
- Between latitudes of 5° and 20° north and south of equator
- Late summer due to warm temp in ocean currents
2
Q
What is the typical lifespan of tropical revolving storms?
A
14 days
3
Q
Outline the formation of tropical revolving storms
A
1) Warm tropical oceans heat air above, air rises anticlockwise = Intense low pressure
2) Rising air cools and condenses forming cumulonimbus clouds = Intense rainfall
3) Pressure continues to drop, causing storm to grow in size as air is drawn in by strong pressure gradient = Strong winds
4) Storm blows westwards due to trade winds
5) Central eye develops where cold, dense air from top of hurricane sinks to form calm area with high pressure
4
Q
Where are the wind speeds the greatest?
A
- Eye wall
- Pressure gradient is at its maximum
