What Is A Hurricane?
A hurricane is defined as a low-pressure system that generally forms in the tropics. The system is accompanied by thunderstorms and, in the Northern atmosphere, a counter-clockwise circulation of winds near the earth's surface. Tropical systems are classified as follows:
- Tropical Depression - An organized system with a defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 38 MPH.
- Tropical Storm - An organized system with a defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 39-73 MPH.
- Hurricane - An intense tropical weather system with a well-defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 74 MPH or higher.
Hazards associated with hurricanes include, flooding, high winds and storm surge which occurs when water is pushed towards the shore by strong hurricane winds.