What’s the difference between hurricane and typhoon? These two terms are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different types of tropical cyclones that occur in different parts of the world. Understanding the differences between them can help us better understand the impact of these powerful storms on different regions.

Hurricanes and typhoons are both tropical cyclones that form over warm ocean waters, typically in the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, respectively. They are characterized by their intense winds, heavy rainfall, and potential for widespread destruction. However, there are some key differences between the two.

Firstly, the difference lies in their names and the regions where they occur. Hurricanes are named after the Atlantic Ocean, while typhoons are named after the Pacific Ocean. The naming conventions for these storms differ as well. In the Atlantic, hurricanes are named by a list of pre-determined names, while in the Pacific, typhoons are named by a list of Japanese characters.

Secondly, the criteria for classifying these storms also differ. A hurricane is classified as a Category 1 storm with sustained winds of at least 74 mph (119 km/h). The intensity of the storm increases with each category, up to Category 5, which has sustained winds of at least 156 mph (251 km/h). On the other hand, a typhoon is classified as a tropical storm with sustained winds of at least 63 mph (101 km/h). The intensity of a typhoon also increases with each category, up to Super Typhoon, which has sustained winds of at least 150 mph (241 km/h).

Another difference between hurricanes and typhoons is their size and structure. Hurricanes are generally larger in size, with winds extending up to 400 miles (640 km) from the center. Typhoons, on the other hand, tend to be smaller, with winds extending up to 250 miles (402 km) from the center. This difference in size can lead to varying impacts on coastal areas when these storms make landfall.

Additionally, hurricanes and typhoons can have different impacts on the regions they affect. In the Atlantic, hurricanes often hit the southeastern United States, the Caribbean, and Central America. In the Pacific, typhoons can affect Japan, China, the Philippines, and other parts of Southeast Asia. The impact of these storms can vary based on the region’s geographical and climatic conditions.

In conclusion, while hurricanes and typhoons are both powerful tropical cyclones, they have distinct differences in their names, naming conventions, intensity criteria, size, and impact on different regions. Understanding these differences can help us better prepare for and respond to these storms, minimizing the potential damage they can cause.