Tropical Storms Flashcards
Define a tropical storm.
A tropical storm is a large, spinning low-pressure weather system that forms in the tropics.
It results in strong winds and torrential rain.
What factors are required for the formation of tropical storms?
SST over 27 degrees celsius.
Ocean depth of at least 50m.
Usually form around 5-20 degrees N/S of the equator (the trade winds are deflected due to the Coriolis effect).
Must be in areas of unstable air pressure.
Describe the formation of a tropical storm.
The air above the warm ocean is heated. Once the SST reaches at least 27°C, the warm air rises quickly, causing an area of very low pressure.
As the air continues to rise quickly it draws more warm moist air up from above the ocean leading to strong winds.
The rapidly rising warm air spirals upwards, cools, condenses and large cumulonimbus clouds form.
These clouds form the eye wall of the storm and produce heavy rainfall.
In the centre of the storm, cold air sinks forming the eye of the storm - here, conditions are calm and dry.
Explain what happens to tropical storms once they reach land.
The tropical storm will lose energy due to friction with the land, and eventually dissipate.
How will climate change affect tropical storms?
Distribution - The geographical range could extend beyond 30 degrees N/S due to higher SST.
Frequency - The storm season may become longer. Higher category tropical storms will be recorded more often, but the overall frequency will not likely change.
Intensity - The magnitude of tropical storms will increase, as higher temperatures provide more energy ( latent heat and evaporation ).
