Prediction and Monitoring of Tropical Cyclones

Tropical cyclones are rapidly rotating storm systems which form almost exclusively over tropical seas. They have a low-pressure center, closed low-level atmospheric circulation, strong winds and a spiral arrangement. Warm ocean waters are the primary source of energy for tropical cyclones. These storms are therefore usually strongest when over or near water, and weaken quite rapidly over land. This makes coastal areas particularly vulnerable to tropical cyclones. Coastal damage can be cause...