Global Science: Typhoon Research.

(1)

Where Do Typhoons Occur?
Typhoons are located in the Pacific Ocean. Around Japan, China, The Philippines, and Korea. Hurricane and Typhoon are regionally specific names for a tropical cyclone. A Typhoon is only called that name if the tropical cyclone is in the West Pacific Ocean. (2)

(3)

Why Do Typhoons Occur?
The scientific definition for a typhoon is a non-frontal synoptic scale over a low-pressure system over tropical waters with organized convection and definite cyclonic surface wind circulation. Warm waters are necessary to fuel the typhoon. Moisture must be present, then a near surface disturbance exists. Also, low values of vertical wind stirs the storm. For a typhoon to actually occur, all these marks must occur near the equator. (4)

(5)

Impact On The Environment, People, and Economy
The damaging winds can fly debris into trees, causing habitat problems. The winds can also effect the sewage systems. The rise of the ocean can cause water damage, ruining homes and businesses. Some typhoons can bring damaging rains, which also ruins homes, and the standing water can spread disease. The rain can cause mudslides and landslides in the mountainous areas of the west. All together, these effects can destroy communications and transportation. The economy can suffer because of the money needed to fix the towns. No one will be able to afford anything other than necessities.

(6)

Warnings Issued
Warnings are issued when the typhoon will hit land within the next 24 hours. There are many flag alerts, white, green, yellow, red, and black (China). Broadcasts are issued over radio and TV also. (7)

(8)

(9)

Technology Used
Satellites are used for tracking cyclones. Thanks to those, we know about Typhoons as soon as they start. Meteorologists monitor the satellites, notifying the people if one does occur. Meteorologists also rely on hunters, "cyclone hunters", to find out more about the storm. The "cyclone hunters" use airplanes equipped with weather instruments into the middle of these powerful storms. (10)