Tracking Tropical Cyclone Jude: Formation and Impacts

Tropical Cyclone Jude formed in the Mozambique Channel with wind speeds of 63 mph. It poses flooding risks beyond its center. Southern Hemisphere cyclones, distinguished from hurricanes, rotate clockwise. They primarily affect eastern Africa and Australia, with the cyclone season from late October to May, peaking in late February and early March.

Tropical Cyclone Jude emerged in the Mozambique Channel on Sunday morning, as reported by the Joint Typhoon Warning Center. With wind speeds recorded at 63 miles per hour, it poses a potential risk to nearby regions, highlighting the importance of tracking such cyclones.

Rainfall associated with Cyclone Jude may lead to flash flooding both inland and far from the storm’s center. Even relatively weaker storms can lead to excessive rainfall that may inundate low-lying areas, emphasizing the need for vigilance in affected regions.

Tropical cyclones predominantly occur in the Southern Hemisphere, constituting only about a quarter of global tropical cyclone activity. In this hemisphere, storms with sustained winds of 74 mph or more are classified as cyclones, contrasting with the term ‘hurricanes’ used in the Atlantic. Additionally, cyclones in the Southern Hemisphere exhibit a clockwise rotation, while hurricanes rotate counterclockwise.

Regions prone to cyclones include eastern Africa—especially Madagascar—as well as the coasts of Australia and various island nations in the vicinity. The cyclone season in this hemisphere typically begins in late October and lasts through May, peaking in late February and early March depending on the area.

Tropical Cyclone Jude, forming in the Mozambique Channel with wind speeds of 63 mph, poses a risk of rainfall and flash flooding in surrounding areas. Unlike the Northern Hemisphere, Southern Hemisphere tropical cyclones exhibit clockwise rotation and occur during a season that runs from late October to May, with peak activity around late February and early March. Understanding the dynamics and implications of such storms is crucial for preparedness and response.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com