The Difference Between a Tropical Storm Vs Hurricane

When it comes to powerful weather systems, it’s common to wonder about the difference between a tropical storm vs. hurricane. They’re similar in that they both originate in the tropics, where warm ocean water provides the energy needed to fuel the storm. However, there are key factors that distinguish the two.

A Tropical Storm vs. Hurricane 

The common characteristics between these weather patterns is the formation. Warm ocean water encourages the development of each of these storms. This is why global warming is of concern to weather watchers; the warmer the ocean remains, the more it creates a springboard for these types of storms. 

Witnessing a tropical storm in the Gulf is common because both of these storms tend to form between 5 and 20 degrees north or south of the equator, where the surface of the sea is at least 80°F.

Warm ocean water is such a theme because it causes the air above the water to rise, creating low pressure at the surface. As the moist air rises and then cools, it condenses to form clouds that release latent heat, further fueling the development of these storms.