hurakáns

Hurakáns are a type of tropical cyclone that forms over the North Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and eastern North Pacific Ocean. They are characterized by a rotating system of clouds and thunderstorms with a closed low-level circulation and sustained winds of 74 miles per hour (119 kilometers per hour) or greater. The term "hurakán" is derived from the Taino word "hurakán," which refers to a wind god.

The formation of hurakáns requires warm ocean waters, typically above 80 degrees Fahrenheit (26.5 degrees Celsius), as well as low vertical wind shear and atmospheric instability. These conditions allow for the development and intensification of thunderstorms that can organize into a powerful storm system. Hurakáns are categorized on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, which ranges from Category 1 (least severe) to Category 5 (most severe), based on their sustained wind speeds.

Hurakáns can cause significant damage through high winds, heavy rainfall leading to flooding, and storm surge, which is a rise in sea level caused by the storm's winds pushing water ashore. The impact of a hurakán depends on its intensity, size, speed, and the geographical area it affects. Monitoring and forecasting hurakáns are crucial for public safety and disaster preparedness. Many countries have meteorological agencies dedicated to tracking these storms and issuing warnings to affected populations.