The Rapid Intensification of Hurricane Milton

The Rapid Intensification of Hurricane Milton

Sub: Geo

Sec: Climatology

Why in News

Hurricane Milton, which made landfall near Siesta Key in Florida, caused widespread devastation including intense rainfall, flooding, and tornadoes. Despite its unusual characteristics, the rapid intensification of the storm is seen as part of a broader pattern linked to climate change. The event highlights growing concerns over the increasing frequency of extreme weather events due to global warming.

What is Hurricane:

• A hurricane is a powerful and destructive tropical storm characterized by strong winds, heavy rainfall, and low atmospheric pressure.
• Hurricanes are also known as cyclones or typhoons in different parts of the world.
• In the Atlantic Ocean and Northeast Pacific, they are called hurricanes, while in the north western Pacific, they are referred to as typhoons, and in the South Pacific and Indian Ocean, they are known as cyclones.

Key characteristics of hurricanes:

• Low Pressure Centre: Hurricanes have a well-defined centre of low atmospheric pressure, known as the
• The eye is typically calm and clear, with light winds, surrounded by a ring of intense thunderstorms called the eyewall.
• Strong Winds: Hurricanes are known for their powerful winds that can reach sustained speeds of at least 74 miles per hour or higher.
• Heavy Rainfall: Hurricanes produce heavy rainfall, which can lead to flooding, landslides, and storm surges.

Formation:

• Hurricanes form over warm ocean waters when the sea surface temperature is typically above 26 degrees Celsius.
• Warm, moist air rises from the ocean’s surface, creating an area of low pressure.
• As the air cools and condenses, it releases heat, which fuels the storm’s development.

Categories:

• Hurricanes are categorized on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale based on their maximum sustained wind speeds.
• The scale ranges from Category 1 (weakest: 74-95 mph) to Category 5 (strongest: 157 mph and higher), with each category representing a higher wind speed and potential for damage.

Factors Behind Milton’s Intensification

• Ocean Heat: Sea surface temperatures in the western Gulf of Mexico reached nearly 31°C, well above the 26°C threshold necessary for hurricane development. Warmer water evaporates more quickly, fuelling the storm’s rapid intensification.
• Climate Change Link: The rising sea temperatures in the Gulf are primarily attributed to climate change. Since 1850, global sea surface temperatures have increased by nearly 0.9°C, with around 0.6°C of this rise occurring over the last 40 years.
• Moisture Content: For every 1°C rise in temperature, the atmosphere can hold 7% more moisture, contributing to more intense storms. This increased moisture leads to heavier rainfall and stronger storms.
• Wind Shear Impact: Wind shear can disrupt hurricanes by altering wind speed and direction. In Milton’s case, the lack of wind shear allowed the storm to intensify rapidly without interference.