Hurricanes

A hurricane is a giant storm with very strong winds and heavy rain. Hurricanes form over warm parts of the ocean. From space, they look like huge swirling circles. They can be hundreds of miles wide.

How They Form

Hurricanes start when warm ocean water heats the air above it. The warm air rises and forms clouds. More warm air rushes in and begins to spin. If the storm grows strong enough, it becomes a hurricane. The middle of the storm is called the eye, and it is calm.

A satellite photo shows a huge hurricane swirling over the ocean.
A satellite photo shows a huge hurricane swirling over the ocean. (NASA MODIS Satellite Imagery / Wikimedia Commons)

What They Do

Hurricanes bring strong winds that can knock down trees and power lines. They also bring lots of rain, which can cause floods. Near the coast, they can push ocean water onto the land. People often leave their homes to stay safe when a big hurricane is coming.

Fun Facts

  • Hurricanes are given names in a list each year.
  • In the Pacific Ocean, hurricanes are called typhoons.
  • A hurricane can last for over a week.

Did You Know?

The eye of a hurricane can be over 20 miles wide, with clear skies and calm winds inside.