Hurricane vs. Typhoon
What is the difference between a hurricane and a typhoon?
A hurricane is a warm-core, low-pressure system that forms over the Atlantic Ocean and the eastern Pacific Ocean. A typhoon is a warm-core, low-pressure system that forms over the western Pacific Ocean. In the North Atlantic and Eastern Pacific, the term "tropical cyclone" is used for any such storm, and "hurricane" is reserved for storms that reach a certain strength. In the Western Pacific, the term "tropical cyclone" is used to describe storms of all intensities, while "typhoon" is only used when the storm reaches a certain strength. In the South Pacific and Indian Ocean, the generic term "tropical cyclone" is used for storms of all intensities.
Where do hurricanes and typhoons occur?
Hurricanes typically occur in the Atlantic Ocean and the eastern Pacific Ocean. During the Atlantic hurricane season (June 1 - November 30), an average of 12 named storms, 6 hurricanes, and 3 major hurricanes occur each year. The Eastern Pacific hurricane season runs from May 15 to November 30, with an average of 15 named storms, 8 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes occurring each year.
Typhoons typically occur in the western Pacific Ocean. During the Western Pacific typhoon season, an average of 25 named tropical cyclones, 17 typhoons, and 9 severe typhoons occur each year.
What is the difference between the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale and the Tropical Cyclone Intensity Scale?
The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is used to classify hurricanes in the Atlantic Ocean and the eastern Pacific Ocean. The scale is based on the hurricane's maximum sustained wind speed. The Tropical Cyclone Intensity Scale is used to classify tropical cyclones in the western Pacific Ocean. The scale is based on the hurricane's minimum central pressure.
The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is a five-point scale, with Category 1 being the weakest and Category 5 being the strongest. The Tropical Cyclone Intensity Scale is a four-point scale, with Severe Tropical Storm being the weakest and Super Typhoon being the strongest.
What are the effects of hurricanes and typhoons?
Hurricanes and typhoons can cause a variety of effects, including:
- Strong winds
- Heavy rain
- Flooding
- Storm surge
- Tornadoes
- Hail
Hurricanes and typhoons can cause significant damage to property and infrastructure. They can also lead to loss of life.
How can you prepare for a hurricane or typhoon?
There are a number of things you can do to prepare for a hurricane or typhoon. These include:
- Educate yourself about the risks of hurricanes and typhoons.
- Make an emergency plan.
- Assemble an emergency kit.
- Protect your property.
- Stay informed about the latest weather forecasts.
If you are in an area that is threatened by a hurricane or typhoon, it is important to follow the instructions of local officials.
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