WHAT IS A TROPICAL CYCLONE?
A cyclone is an area of extreme low pressure characterised by rotating winds
around a central calm "eye". The most destructive winds are closest to the
eye with damaging winds sometimes extending over one hundred kilometres
from the centre of the cyclone.
A cyclone often produces large amounts of rain, so in addition to
damage from wind gusts, flooding may occur within the affected area
and the associated catchment areas and river basins.
In severe cyclones, wind gusts exceed 165 km/h and can reach more
than 280 km/h for category 5 systems.
Tropical cyclones can persist for many days and may follow quite erratic
paths. They usually dissipate over land or colder oceans.
Outside of Australia, cyclones are often referred to as Hurricanes or Typhoons.
The Eye of the Storm
The centre of a cyclone is called the “Eye” and is often characterised by light
winds and sometimes clear skies. The “calm” of the eye can be deceiving
and people need to ensure they continue to observe the relevant “alert” and
stay sheltered unless the “all clear” signal has been given.
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