How Hurricanes Form

The Birth of a Hurricane Hurricanes don't just appear out of nowhere. They require specific conditions to form: 1. Warm Ocean Water (80°F/27°C or warmer) Provides the energy that fuels the storm Must be warm to a depth of at least 150 feet Acts like a giant battery powering the system 2. Low Wind Shear Wind shear tears storms apart Calm upper atmosphere allows storms to grow vertically Think of it like trying to stack blocks in a windstorm 3. Tropical Wave or Disturbance Often starts as a wave coming off Africa Provides the initial spin and organization Like a seed that grows into a mighty tr…