A tropical cyclone will be strengthened by which condition?

A tropical cyclone will be strengthened by which condition?

• A. Cold landmass
• B. Dry air intrusion
• C. Warm water
• D. Mountain terrain

Answer: (C)

Warm ocean water fuels tropical cyclones. When sea surface temperatures are high enough, more water evaporates into the air. That moist air rises and, as it cools, the water vapor condenses and releases latent heat. This heat release powers stronger thunderstorms within the system, deepens the central low pressure, and boosts wind speeds, allowing the storm to intensify. If the water is cold, there isn’t enough energy and moisture to sustain strengthening. Dry air can disrupt convection, while moving over land or across mountainous terrain removes energy and hampers growth.

Warm ocean water fuels tropical cyclones. When sea surface temperatures are high enough, more water evaporates into the air. That moist air rises and, as it cools, the water vapor condenses and releases latent heat. This heat release powers stronger thunderstorms within the system, deepens the central low pressure, and boosts wind speeds, allowing the storm to intensify. If the water is cold, there isn’t enough energy and moisture to sustain strengthening. Dry air can disrupt convection, while moving over land or across mountainous terrain removes energy and hampers growth.