Tropical storm

Definition

A tropical storm is a type of organized system of clouds and thunderstorms that forms over warm tropical waters and produces sustained winds ranging from 39 to 73 miles per hour. These storms are a crucial stage in the development of tropical cyclones, which can intensify into hurricanes. Understanding the characteristics and behaviors of tropical storms helps in predicting their impact and the potential for further strengthening into more severe weather systems.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tropical storms typically form in regions with sea surface temperatures of at least 26.5 degrees Celsius (about 80 degrees Fahrenheit), providing the heat and moisture needed for their development.
2. The classification of a tropical storm is determined by its maximum sustained wind speed, which is measured using various meteorological instruments.
3. Once a tropical storm reaches sustained winds of 74 miles per hour, it is classified as a hurricane and is assigned a name from the predetermined list for that year.
4. Tropical storms can produce heavy rainfall and lead to flooding, even if they do not reach hurricane status, highlighting their potential for destruction.
5. The path and intensity of a tropical storm can be influenced by surrounding atmospheric conditions, including wind shear and the presence of other weather systems.

Review Questions

• How do tropical storms form, and what environmental conditions are necessary for their development?
  • Tropical storms form over warm ocean waters when there is sufficient heat and moisture in the atmosphere. Key environmental conditions include sea surface temperatures of at least 26.5 degrees Celsius, low vertical wind shear, and atmospheric instability that promotes convection. When these factors align, they can lead to the organization of thunderstorms that develop into a tropical storm as wind speeds reach between 39 and 73 miles per hour.
• What are the critical differences between tropical storms, hurricanes, and tropical depressions in terms of their wind speeds and potential impacts?
  • Tropical depressions have maximum sustained winds of less than 39 miles per hour and are often the initial stage in the formation of tropical cyclones. Tropical storms range from 39 to 73 miles per hour, indicating a more organized system with increasing potential for impact, including heavy rain and flooding. Hurricanes have sustained winds exceeding 74 miles per hour, representing a much higher threat level with destructive capabilities such as storm surges and extensive damage to infrastructure.
• Evaluate the potential social and economic impacts that can result from a tropical storm compared to a hurricane.
  • While both tropical storms and hurricanes can cause significant damage, the severity often differs due to their wind speeds and overall structure. Tropical storms can lead to flooding, power outages, and localized damage but generally have less catastrophic effects than hurricanes. However, if a tropical storm remains stationary or moves slowly over an area, it can result in prolonged heavy rainfall that leads to severe flooding. The economic impact may include disruptions to local businesses, increased emergency response costs, and long-term recovery expenses. Conversely, hurricanes can result in widespread destruction requiring large-scale recovery efforts, affecting larger regions and leading to substantial economic losses.

Related terms

Tropical depression: A tropical depression is a weaker stage of a tropical cyclone, characterized by maximum sustained winds of less than 39 miles per hour.

Hurricane: A hurricane is a powerful tropical cyclone with sustained winds of 74 miles per hour or greater, capable of causing significant damage.

Storm surge: Storm surge refers to the rise in sea level that occurs during tropical storms and hurricanes, caused by strong winds pushing water towards the shore.