A cyclone is a large-scale air mass that rotates around a strong center of low atmospheric pressure.

Cyclones are characterized by inward-spiraling winds that rotate around an area of low pressure.
Depending on their location, structure, and intensity, cyclones can have various names and
characteristics. Here are the key aspects of cyclones:

Types of Cyclones

Tropical Cyclones: These form over warm tropical or subtropical waters and gain energy from the
heat of the sea surface.

Hurricanes: Named when they occur in the Atlantic Ocean and the northeastern Pacific Ocean.

Typhoons: Named when they occur in the northwestern Pacific Ocean.

Cyclones: Named when they occur in the Indian Ocean and the South Pacific Ocean.

Extratropical Cyclones: These form outside the tropics, usually between 30° and 60° latitude, and are
associated with fronts and horizontal temperature contrasts.

Polar Lows: Small, relatively short-lived cyclones that form near the poles and are generally less
intense than tropical cyclones.

Structure of a Cyclone

Eye: The calm center of a tropical cyclone, typically 30-65 kilometers (19-40 miles) in diameter,
surrounded by the eyewall.

Eyewall: A ring of thunderstorms around the eye, characterized by the most severe weather,
including the highest winds and heaviest rains.

Rainbands: Spiral bands of clouds and thunderstorms extending from the center outward, often
carrying heavy rain and strong winds.

Formation and Development

Warm Sea Surface: Tropical cyclones form over warm ocean waters (usually above 26°C or 79°F).

Low Wind Shear: Weak vertical wind shear allows the storm to maintain its structure and intensify.

Moisture at Mid-Levels: Sufficient moisture in the mid-troposphere is necessary to fuel the storm.

Pre-existing Disturbance: A pre-existing weather disturbance (like a tropical wave) often acts as a
seed for the cyclone.

Coriolis Force: The rotation of the Earth helps induce the cyclone's spin, which is why cyclones do not
form near the equator.

Impact of Cyclones

Strong Winds: Can cause widespread damage to buildings, trees, and infrastructure.
Heavy Rainfall: Often leads to flooding, landslides, and mudslides, causing significant damage and
loss of life.

Storm Surge: An abnormal rise in sea level caused by the cyclone's winds, which can inundate coastal
areas and cause extensive flooding.

Economic Cost: Damage to homes, businesses, infrastructure, and agriculture can result in significant
economic losses.

Cyclone Classification

Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale: Used to classify hurricanes in the Atlantic and northeastern
Pacific based on their wind speeds, ranging from Category 1 (least severe) to Category 5 (most
severe).

Australia: Cyclones are also classified by intensity, ranging from Category 1 to Category 5.

Preparedness and Mitigation

Monitoring and Early Warning Systems: Weather agencies monitor and provide forecasts and
warnings about approaching cyclones.

Emergency Plans and Evacuations: Communities in cyclone-prone areas should have emergency
response plans and evacuation routes.

Building Resilience: Constructing buildings and infrastructure to withstand high winds and
floodwaters can mitigate damage.

Public Awareness and Education: Educating communities about the risks and safety measures can
save lives and reduce property damage.

Response and Recovery

Immediate Response: Includes search and rescue operations, providing emergency shelter, food, and
medical care.

Recovery Efforts: Long-term recovery involves rebuilding and repairing infrastructure, homes, and
services.

Psychological Support: Providing mental health services to help individuals and communities recover
from the trauma of the event.

Cyclones are powerful natural phenomena that require careful monitoring and preparedness to
mitigate their potentially devastating impacts.