Hurricane Hunters reveal 4 warning signs that a storm is about to strengthen
Nearly three decades of Hurricane Hunter data reveal four features that can help a tilted tropical cyclone straighten its circulation and become capable of intensifying. The findings could give forecasters an earlier warning that a seemingly disorganized storm is becoming primed to strengthen.
Tropical cyclones must first become vertically organized in order to strengthen significantly, according to new research. Scientists from the University of Miami Rosenstiel School and NOAA analyzed nearly three decades of data from Hurricane Hunter aircraft to identify four key factors that help tilted tropical cyclones line up vertically.
These factors include a compact, tightly organized circulation near the ocean surface, favorable positioning of the storm's tilt relative to vertical wind shear, stronger rising air and heavier rainfall near the storm's lower-level center, and an environment with warm ocean water, ample atmospheric moisture, and weak middle-level winds.
By recognizing these features earlier, meteorologists may be able to provide coastal communities with more time to prepare for rapidly intensifying storms.
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