What is a Storm?

A storm is an atmospheric disturbance that can be composed of rain, wind, snow, thunder or lightening. Geographic location plays a role in the type of storms that are experienced, snow storms are common in the Midwest and up North and rain storms seem to occur everywhere. However the worst of storms are the infamous hurricane that occurs off the Northern Atlantic Ocean with affects stretching to the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean. It is the responsibility of the National Hurricane Center to track and predict changes in tropical weather patterns.

Hurricane season begins on June 1 and extends until November 30th, with peak activities in September. A hurricane is a wind storm that forms over tropical or subtropical waters that can produce winds that travel at 74mph or higher. A hurricane will be considered a major hurricane when classified as a category 3 or higher. The hurricane has a swirling motion that can be observed over the ocean until it has gained enough power to travel towards land. These strong winds produce heavy rainfall that gives rise to flooding and even tornados; these effects ultimately result in property damage and blackouts. What is surprising is that in the eye of a hurricane there is peace and beautiful weather. In the next article we will discuss how to prepare for a hurricane.