why do tropical cyclone develop in late summer
Why do tropical cyclones develop in late summer?
Tropical cyclones, also known as hurricanes, typhoons, or simply cyclones depending on their location, typically develop in late summer. This phenomenon can be attributed to several key factors, primarily related to the specific environmental conditions required for their formation. Here’s a detailed explanation:
**1. Warm Ocean Waters: One of the critical ingredients for the development of tropical cyclones is warm seawater, with temperatures of at least 26-27 degrees Celsius (about 79-81 degrees Fahrenheit). During the late summer, ocean temperatures are at their highest, having absorbed significant solar energy throughout the preceding months. These warm waters provide the necessary heat and moisture that fuel tropical cyclones.
**2. Thermal Energy and Moisture: Warm waters lead to increased evaporation and the presence of warm, moist air. This moist air rises and cools, causing condensation and the release of latent heat. This heat release is a crucial energy source for the intensification of cyclonic systems.
**3. Atmospheric Instability: Late summer months often exhibit greater atmospheric instability, meaning the air at higher altitudes is significantly cooler than the warm, moist air near the surface. This temperature difference helps to perpetuate the rising of warm air and sinking of cooler air, setting up a cycle that is conducive to storm development.
**4. Low Vertical Wind Shear: For a tropical cyclone to form and strengthen, the vertical wind shear (the difference in wind speed and direction between the lower and upper levels of the atmosphere) needs to be relatively low. High vertical wind shear can disrupt the structure of a developing cyclone. During late summer, conditions often feature reduced wind shear, which allows the storm to organize and intensify.
**5. Coriolis Effect: The Coriolis effect, resulting from Earth’s rotation, causes moving air to rotate and helps in the formation of the cyclonic structure. In late summer, the position of ITCZ (Intertropical Convergence Zone) is more favorable, aligning better with the regions where the Coriolis effect can initiate and sustain the rotation necessary for cyclones.
**6. High Humidity in the Mid-Troposphere: A humid mid-troposphere provides a more favorable environment for cloud formation and sustenance of the storm system. During late summer, the atmospheric conditions promote high humidity levels, which supports cyclonic activities.
Conclusion
In summary, tropical cyclones develop in late summer primarily due to the optimal combination of warm ocean waters, significant atmospheric instability, reduced vertical wind shear, and favorable humidity and Coriolis conditions. These factors create an environment where cyclonic systems can form, organize, and intensify, making late summer the peak period for these powerful storms.
By understanding these underlying causes, researchers and meteorologists can better predict and prepare for the impact of tropical cyclones, ultimately saving lives and minimizing damage.