orkaner

Orkaner, known in English as hurricanes, are tropical cyclones characterized by sustained winds of at least 119 kilometers per hour. In the Atlantic and Northeast Pacific they are called hurricanes; in other basins they may be referred to as typhoons or simply tropical cyclones. The term orkan is used in several European languages for these storms.

They form over warm ocean waters, typically at least 26.5 C, when moist air rises and a low-pressure core develops. With sufficient Coriolis force and low vertical wind shear, a tropical disturbance can intensify through stages: tropical depression, tropical storm, and finally a hurricane. The storm often develops an eye and a surrounding eyewall where winds are strongest. Intensity is commonly classified using the Saffir–Simpson scale (Category 1 to 5).

Impact regions include coastlines and nearby lands, where the strongest effects are wind damage, storm surge, and heavy rainfall leading to flooding and landslides. Secondary hazards include coastal erosion, rip currents, and disrupted infrastructure. The extent of damage depends on size, forward speed, angle of approach, and underlying vulnerability.

Forecasting and response rely on satellite data, aircraft reconnaissance, radar, and computer models to estimate track and intensity. Warnings and watches are issued by meteorological agencies; names are assigned from predetermined lists and are retired when storms are exceptionally deadly or costly.

In the context of climate change, warmer ocean temperatures and changing atmospheric conditions are associated with the potential for stronger storms and heavier rainfall, though regional changes in frequency remain uncertain. Studying orkaner improves understanding of atmospheric science, disaster preparedness, and resilience planning.