Episode 110: Weather Part II

Formation

Tropical cyclones, unlike mid-latitude cyclones, form in tropical regions where the air is uniformly warm. James Fodor explains that these cyclones are more symmetrical and do not form at the boundary between hot and cold air masses. Instead, they arise from perturbations in trade winds, creating low-pressure zones essential for cyclone formation 1. Another critical factor is the Coriolis effect, which provides the necessary rotation for cyclones to develop, absent at the equator 1. Low-pressure zones can also form through meandering wind patterns or geographical barriers, leading to cyclonic activity 2.

   

Structure

The structure of tropical cyclones includes a central low-pressure area known as the eye, where air descends, resulting in clear skies. James Fodor describes this as a positive feedback cycle, with air spiraling upwards around the eye and then descending back to the surface 3. This cycle allows the cyclone to sustain itself and move as a single unit. The eye is typically about 50 km across and is characterized by calm conditions and lack of clouds 4.