Step 5: Warm air encourages evaporation which means that there is plenty of moisture available for rain.
Where?
In areas of intense low pressure where the air follows a spiral pattern.
Over warm moist sea, 8 degrees to 15 degrees north and south of the equator.
They normally move westwards and polewards after they reach land - although when they have they do tend to die out due to lack of moisture.
When?
Normally in late summer and early autumn.
Effects?
A hurricanes life- span is normally 7- 14 days.
The winds average 160 km per hour and very heavy falls from cumulo- nimbus clouds.
This can cause:
. Flooding
. Damage to power and water supplies
. Mud slides
. Houses are demolished especially near the coast.
. Damage to crops and industries
. And damage to roads.
Can it be prevented?
No, although it can be predicted:
Low pressure can be estimated from satellite images and meteorological measurements.
Its effects can also be minimised by:
. Boarding up windows with wood, draw blinds and place a mattress in the window frame to prevent flying glass.
. Evacuating near the coastline.
. Building up sea defences
. Or securely fixing down any loose objects near outside windows or doors.
