GED Science TestEarth and Space ScienceMedium
A meteorologist is tracking a large, rotating storm system over the tropical Atlantic Ocean. The system has sustained winds of 150 km/h, a well-defined eye, and is moving westward. What category of storm is the meteorologist most likely observing?
- AHurricane
- BTropical Storm
- CTropical Depression
- DExtratropical Cyclone
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Hurricane
A hurricane (or typhoon/cyclone in other regions) is a tropical cyclone with sustained winds of 119 km/h (74 mph) or higher, characterized by a well-defined eye, spiraling rainbands, and typically forming over warm ocean waters.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Tropical storms have sustained winds between 63-118 km/h and may not have a fully formed eye.
- C. Tropical depressions have sustained winds less than 63 km/h and usually lack a well-defined eye.
- D. Extratropical cyclones form outside the tropics and derive energy from temperature differences, not warm ocean waters, and generally do not have an 'eye' in the same way tropical cyclones do.
Hurricane (Tropical Cyclone)
A rapidly rotating storm system characterized by a low-pressure center, strong winds, and a spiral arrangement of thunderstorms that produce heavy rain, forming over tropical or subtropical oceans.
- Sustained winds ≥ 119 km/h (74 mph).
- Has a distinct eye at its center.
- Forms over warm ocean waters (≥ 26.5°C).
Memory trick: Depression, Storm, Then Hurricane's Fury