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.
Researchers from the University of Miami and NOAA have identified four key features that help tropical cyclones become vertically organized and increase their potential for intensification. These features include a compact, tightly organized circulation near the ocean surface, favorable positioning of the storm 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, abundant atmospheric moisture, and weak middle-level winds.
Understanding these factors is crucial for providing coastal communities with more time to prepare for rapidly intensifying storms, which can give emergency managers limited time for response. The study analyzed nearly three decades of NOAA Hurricane Hunter data, revealing that these characteristics can help forecasters recognize when a poorly organized tropical cyclone is becoming more favorable for strengthening.
Brief written by urgent.news from ScienceDaily's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
