Hurricanes and El Niño–Southern Oscillation

These flashcards cover key concepts associated with hurricanes, their formation, the El Niño-Southern Oscillation, and related atmospheric phenomena.

What conditions are necessary for tropical cyclogenesis?

1. Water temperatures of at least 26.5 °C; 2. Rapid cooling with height; 3. High humidity in lower-to-mid troposphere; 4. Low wind shear; 5. Formation at least 500 km from the equator; 6. Pre-existing system of disturbed weather.

What is the critical sea surface temperature for hurricanes to form?

Approximately 27°C.

What is the main difference between Hurricane and Typhoon?

Hurricanes form in the North Atlantic, Northeast Pacific, or South Pacific, whereas Typhoons form in the Northwest Pacific.

What atmospheric conditions are associated with El Niño?

High surface atmospheric pressure in the area of the Indonesian low, low pressure in the South Pacific High, weak or reversed trade winds, and unusually high surface water temperatures off Peru.

What distinguishes La Niña from El Niño?

La Niña has strong trade winds and unusually cold surface water temperatures off Peru, whereas El Niño has weak or reversed trade winds and unusually warm surface water temperatures.

What effect does El Niño have on global weather patterns?

It can lead to unusually dry periods in some regions and higher than normal rainfall in others.

How does Hurricane Isabel relate to climate monitoring?

Hurricane Isabel was monitored by NOAA-17 AVHRR on September 18, 2003.

What is the term for storms forming in the South Indian Ocean?

It is referred to as a Tropical Cyclone.

What are the El Niño-related weather anomalies commonly observed?

Increased rainfall in normally dry areas and drought conditions in eastern regions.

What role does ocean temperature play in hurricane formation?

Energy from warm ocean water fuels hurricanes by extracting water vapor and releasing energy during condensation.