Hurricane Glossary: Key Terms Explained

Tropical weather comes with its own vocabulary. Here are the terms you'll hear most, in plain language — so the forecasts make sense when it matters. The systems Tropical cyclone — the general term for any rotating tropical storm system. “Hurricane,” “typhoon,” and “cyclone” are all tropical cyclones, named differently by region. Tropical disturbance — a disorganized cluster of thunderstorms that might develop. Tropical depression — an organized system with a closed circulation and winds up to 38 mph. Tropical storm — winds of 39-73 mph; this is when it earns a name. Hurricane — winds of 74 m…