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Tropical Cyclones
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- Tropical cyclones are intense low-pressure systems that form over warm tropical or subtropical ocean waters. They are characterized by a closed circulation and strong winds rotating around a central eye. Tropical cyclones are known as hurricanes in the Atlantic Ocean and eastern Pacific Ocean, typhoons in the western Pacific Ocean, and cyclones in the Indian Ocean and southwestern Pacific Ocean.
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Extratropical Cyclones
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- Extratropical cyclones, also known as mid-latitude or frontal cyclones, form in the middle latitudes (around 30 to 60 degrees) and are not associated with tropical regions. They derive their energy from the temperature contrasts between warm and cold air masses. Extratropical cyclones often bring stormy weather, including strong winds, heavy rain or snow, and rapid temperature changes.
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Polar Cyclones
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- Polar cyclones are low-pressure systems that occur near the Earth’s polar regions, specifically the Arctic and Antarctic. They form when the temperature difference between polar air and warmer air masses causes cyclonic circulation. Polar cyclones are associated with blizzards, freezing temperatures, and strong winds.
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Mesocyclones
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- Mesocyclones are powerful rotating updrafts within severe thunderstorms. They are characterized by a well-defined circulation and can lead to the formation of tornadoes. Mesocyclones are typically associated with supercell thunderstorms, which are severe storms with a persistent rotating updraft.
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Subtropical Cyclones
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- Subtropical cyclones have characteristics of both tropical and extratropical cyclones. They form in the subtropics, where there are temperature differences and gradients between air masses. Subtropical cyclones have a mix of tropical and extratropical features, including a broad wind field and a combination of both symmetric and asymmetric precipitation patterns.
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