This FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) is on the topic of hurricanes,
typhoons and tropical cyclones. It contains various definitions,
answers for some specific questions, information about the various
tropical cyclone basins, provides sites that you can access both real-
time and historical cyclone information, as well as a book list and
references to scientific papers related to tropical cyclones. Any
suggestions or corrections may be sent to :
Chris Landsea principal author
Stan Goldenberg co-author
Neal Dorst webmaster
Erica Rule outreach coordinator
version 4.0 August 13, 2004
Contents
Introduction
A brief introduction along with credits and a detailed listing of
the questions answered
Basic Definitions
Some basic definitions of tropical cyclone terms
Tropical Cyclone Names
The reason for naming tropical cyclones as well as lists of names
used and retired
Tropical Cyclone Modification and Myths
Facts and fictions about tropical cyclones and attempts to modify
them
Tropical Cyclone Winds
The various classification schemes based on wind speed, the
structure of winds and how they change with time,the destruction
they cause, the amount of energy necessary to drive the winds,
and the relation to the central pressure
Tropical Cyclone Records
Records of tropical cyclones intensity, rainfall, deaths and
damage caused, as well as rankings for US landfalling hurricanes.
Tropical Cyclone Forecasting
Lists of tropical cyclone forecast centers, the computer models
used, and seasonal forecast schemes and verifications
Tropical Cyclone Climatology
The length and peak of hurricane season, long term climate affects
on tropical cyclone activity, historical records of US landfalls,
probabilities of future landfalls, and lighning with tropical
cyclones
Tropical Cyclone Observation
Satellite observation of tropical cyclones and aircraft
reconnaissance
Real Time Information
Lists On-line resources for real time tropical cyclone data
Historical Information
Information on past storms, lists of scientific articles and
books on tropical cyclones
Hurricane Preparation
How to prepare for tropical cyclones and information on shutters
Hurricanes versus Tornadoes
Differences between tropical cyclones and tornadoes and
information on tropical cyclone spawned tornadoes
References
List of scientific articles on tropical cyclones that are
referenced in other parts of the FAQ
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