Overview of Tropical Cyclone Alfred in the Coral Sea

Tropical Cyclone Alfred was tracked in the Coral Sea with sustained winds of 86 mph, making it a Category 1 hurricane equivalent. The storm’s structure was analyzed using satellite imagery, which indicated its strength and cohesion. Cyclones differ from hurricanes in the rotation direction and commonly affect regions such as Madagascar and parts of Australia, with the Southern Hemisphere’s cyclone season running from late October to May.

The Joint Typhoon Warning Center reported that Tropical Cyclone Alfred was situated in the Coral Sea on Tuesday morning Eastern time. The cyclone exhibited sustained wind speeds of 86 miles per hour, categorizing it as a Category 1 hurricane in the Atlantic.

To assess the storm’s strength and structure, satellite imagery provides valuable insights, particularly in identifying the symmetry and cohesion within the cyclone. A well-formed eye often indicates that the storm is not facing significant weakening factors.

Less than one-quarter of the Earth’s tropical cyclones develop in the Southern Hemisphere, where winds exceeding 74 miles per hour designate these phenomena as cyclones rather than hurricanes. A critical distinction lies in their rotation; cyclones rotate clockwise, while hurricanes spin counterclockwise.

Cyclones can impact various geographical regions, notably eastern Africa, Madagascar, and several coastal areas of Australia, alongside nearby island nations. The cyclone season in the Southern Hemisphere differs from other parts of the world, typically commencing in late October and extending through May, with peak activity generally occurring from late February to early March.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Alfred showcases significant characteristics typical of cyclones in the Southern Hemisphere, including its wind speed and rotation direction. Satellite imagery plays a crucial role in understanding the storm’s dynamics. Furthermore, the cyclone season’s timing and affected regions highlight the unique patterns of these meteorological events.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com