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Global atmospheric circulation
The larger scale movement of air around the Earth, driven by temperature differences between the equator and the poles. Influences climate patterns and weather systems
Atmospheric circulation model
Representation of how pressure belts and surface winds distribute heat and moisture across the planet, affecting weather patterns and systems
Pressure belts
Zones of high and low pressure created by te differential heating of the Earth’s surface. Influences wind and weather systems
Surface winds
Winds that occur near the Earth’s surface, driven by the Coriolis effect, contributing to weather patterns and ocean currents
Tropical storm
General term for storms that originate in the tropics, including hurricanes, cyclones and typhoons, characterised by strong winds and heavy rainfall
Hurricane
A tropical cyclone occurring in the North Atlantic or Eastern Pacific, with winds exceeding 74mph. Can cause extensive damage and flooding
Cyclone
A tropical storm in the South Pacific and Indian Ocean, similar to a hurricane but with regional naming conventions
Typhoon
A tropical cyclone occurring in the Northwest Pacific Ocean, with similar characteristics to hurricanes and cyclones
Tropical storm formation
The process in which a tropical storm needs warm ocean waters, atmospheric instability and low vertical wind shear to form
Eye of the Storm
The calm, central area of the storm surrounded by the eyewall
Eyewall
A ring of thunderstorms surrounding the eye of the tropical cyclone, where the highest winds and rainfall are found
Storm surge
An abnormal rise in sea level caused by the wind and low pressure associated with a tropical cyclone, leading to coastal flooding
Climate change
Long term changes in temperature and weather patterns due to human activities which can affect the frequency and intensity and distributions of storms.
Primary effects
Immediate effects resulting from the impact of the tropical storms such as wind damage, storm surge and heavy rainfall
Secondary effects
Indirect impacts resulting from the primary effects including flooding, landslide and long-term economic disruptions
Immediate response
Actions taken immediately after a tropical storm to address urgent needs, such as emergency rescue operations and emergency aid
Long-term response
Actions taken in the aftermath of a tropical storm to recover and rebuild, including infrastructure repair and economic recovery efforts
Weather hazard
A weather-related event or condition that poses a threat to people, property or the environment. Includes floods, heatwaves or storms
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