What Qualifies a Storm as a Hurricane

When you live in an area that frequently experiences hurricanes, it is important to always stay prepared, regardless of the current season. Not all storms with high winds and heavy rain are qualified as hurricanes, however.

Temperature

Storms require a temperature of at least 80 degrees Fahrenheit to have the required amount of heat energy to build into an actual hurricane. Hurricane season lasts from is June to November in the Northern hemisphere; the Atlantic Ocean experiences peak hurricane season in mid-September.

Surrounding weather conditions

In addition to warm temperatures, a low-pressure system or additional storm helps to create the hurricane and turn it into a larger storm. These low-pressure systems generally come in from the ocean and sweep over the land, which becomes the path that the hurricane may follow.

Stages of development

A tropical cyclone is not classified as a hurricane until it is of sufficient size and speed. First, while the wind speed is less than 39 miles per hour, it is considered a tropical depression. When the storm grows to 39 miles per hour, it is classified as a tropical storm. Finally, when the storm reaches a wind speed of 74 miles per hour, it is classified as a hurricane.

Whether you live in a hurricane zone, or you plan to travel to a hurricane-prone location, you should stay prepared at all times. Keep track of the weather and upcoming forecasts if you are in the area of a projected hurricane.