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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