What are tropical storms?

A tropical storm is a powerful weather system characterised by intense winds and heavy rainfall, forming over warm ocean waters in tropical regions. These storms typically develop when sea surface temperatures exceed 26.5°C, causing the warm, moist air to rise and create a low-pressure system. As the air ascends, it cools and condenses, releasing latent heat and fueling the storm’s energy. Tropical storms can bring severe weather conditions, including strong winds, torrential rains, and flooding, and can escalate into more intense systems like hurricanes, typhoons, or cyclones, depending on their location. They pose significant hazards to coastal communities due to their potential for widespread damage and disruption.