Tajfuny

Tajfuny are tropical cyclones of the northwestern Pacific Ocean, known in English as typhoons. In Polish meteorology, tajfuny describe powerful, organized low-pressure systems that derive energy from warm ocean waters and deep convection. They can bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, and coastal flooding, and pose hazards to coastal communities and offshore activities. The most active region for tajfuny is the western North Pacific, with activity peaking in late summer and autumn.

Formation and structure of tajfuny follow general tropical cyclone dynamics. They develop over sufficiently warm sea surface temperatures (typically at least 26.5 C), in environments with ample moisture and relatively low vertical wind shear. Once a broad area of deep convection becomes organized around a defined low-pressure center, a tropical cyclone can intensify into a tropical storm and then a typhoon. Mature tajfuny often feature a well-defined eye, surrounded by an eyewall and spiraling rainbands.

Forecasting, naming, and measurement are handled by regional and international meteorological agencies. In the Western Pacific, the Japan Meteorological Agency provides official advisories and best-track data, while the Joint Typhoon Warning Center issues guidance for the U.S. military and international users. In the Philippines, PAGASA assigns local names to storms crossing its area. Intensity is reported using different wind-speed conventions: the JMA uses 10-minute sustained winds, while some agencies use 1-minute speeds, influencing category descriptions.

Impacts of tajfuny are typically driven by high winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surge. Preparedness and response rely on early warning systems, evacuations, and resilient infrastructure to reduce loss of life and property. The term tajfuny also reflects linguistic ties to related words for tropical cyclones in other languages, with plural usage indicating multiple storms within a season.