We’ve all heard the terms “superstorm” and “hurricane” used to describe severe weather systems, but are they really that different? In this blog post, we will explore the difference between these two powerful forces of nature and how they both cause destruction in their own way. Learn about the devastating effects they can have when they make landfall as well as what conditions must be present for each one to form. With our newfound understanding of superstorms and hurricanes, we can prepare ourselves for what may come next!
What is Superstorm?
Superstorms are extreme weather phenomena that bring extremely hazardous weather conditions and powerful winds with them. Superstorms can cause destructive flooding, strong winds, many lightning strikes, and violent thunderstorms for long stretches of time. Superstorms tend to travel quickly compared to other storms and generally contain more electrical energy than any other storm system. Superstorm occurrences have become increasingly frequent in recent years due to global warming and rising ocean temperature which amplifies their destructive force dramatically.
What is Hurricane?
Hurricane is a type of natural disaster that can wreak devastating havoc in the wake of its fury. Hurricane season officially begins on June 1 each year and runs through November 30, with the peak months bookending around September.
- Hurricane storms are caused when atmospheric pressure drops suddenly, causing air to spin rapidly and build up heat and moisture, resulting in destructive winds and heavy rains. Moreover, Hurricane’s strong winds can cause severe damage to infrastructure.
- As a result of this damage, floods often occur as Hurricane’s rains erode unsecured landfills and poor water drainage systems, which further exacerbates the magnitude of Hurricane devastation.
- Facing Hurricane’s powerful force is one of nature’s toughest trials, yet offers an opportunity for humanity to come together in times of adversity.
Difference between Superstorm and Hurricane
Superstorms and Hurricanes are both major weather patterns, but they exist on different scales and manifest with their own characteristics.
- Superstorms are rarer and larger than storms classified as hurricanes. Superstorms reach across entire regions, while hurricanes can range in size depending on the area affected.
- Superstorms combine several storm systems into one powerful mega storm that can cover a much wider area than most hurricanes.
- Superstorm destruction is caused by strong winds in excess of 160 mph while hurricanes often involve rotating winds that build up to over 150 mph; at this point, they become considered as superstorms.
Superstorms bring destruction through flooding, severe winds, unpredictable weather patterns, and an increased risk of tornadoes whereas a hurricane causes destruction from torrential rain, high winds, and storm surge floods which form when the surrounding tides fill with strong low temperatures in the strongest parts of the hurricane.
Conclusion
A superstorm is a large, deep low pressure system that forms over warm ocean waters and has the potential to bring very high winds, excessive amounts of precipitation, and even severe thunderstorms inland. A hurricane is a tropical cyclone with sustained wind speeds of at least 74 miles per hour. Superstorms are more intense than hurricanes and can last for days or weeks, whereas hurricanes typically only last for a few hours.
