Understanding Storms: Hurricanes, Typhoons, and Cyclones

Meteorologist Jason Myers explains that hurricanes, typhoons, and cyclones are essentially the same weather phenomena, differing only in their regional names. In the Atlantic and Northeast Pacific, they are called hurricanes; in the Northwest Pacific, typhoons; and in the South Pacific and Indian Ocean, cyclones. A slight difference exists in their spin direction: counterclockwise in the northern hemisphere and clockwise in the southern hemisphere. These storms form under similar conditions, requiring warm tropical oceans, moisture, and light winds. If these conditions persist, they can develop into powerful storms with winds over 74 mph, causing significant rain and flooding.

What is the primary factor that determines whether a storm is called a hurricane, typhoon, or cyclone?

• The size of the storm

• The location where the storm forms

• The amount of rainfall

• The speed of the storm

In which ocean are storms referred to as typhoons?

• Atlantic Ocean

• Northwest Pacific

• Northeast Pacific

• Indian Ocean

How do storms in the northern hemisphere spin?

• Vertically

• Clockwise

• Counterclockwise

• Horizontally

What is a common characteristic of all these storms regardless of their name?

• They all originate from the same location

• They all have winds less than 74 mph

• They all form over cold waters

• They all require warm tropical oceans

What is the minimum wind speed for a storm to be classified as a hurricane, typhoon, or cyclone?

• 50 mph

• 60 mph

• 74 mph

• 90 mph

What can be a major consequence of these storms?

• Volcanic eruptions

• Earthquakes

• Flooding

• Drought

Which of the following is NOT a necessary condition for the formation of these storms?

• Relatively light winds

• Strong winds

• Moisture

• Warm tropical oceans