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Hurricane Milton rapidly intensified into a Category 5 storm in less than a day, prompting evacuations in Florida, USA and raising concerns after recent storm impacts.
Hurricane Milton
Hurricane Milton is an extremely powerful tropical cyclone in the Gulf of Mexico
It reached sustained winds of 180 mph and became one of the strongest Atlantic storms on record.
Although it weakened slightly, it remained a major hurricane as it approached land.
What is rapid intensification?
This term refers to an increase in a tropical cyclone's wind speed by at least 30 knots (about 35 mph) within 24 hours, potentially escalating the storm's category significantly.
What causes hurricanes to rapidly intensify?
Warm sea surface temperatures provide essential energy for intensification.
Reduced vertical wind shear allows storms to grow more effectively.
Warm waters and lower salinity enhance moisture availability, fueling the storm.
Intense thunderstorms within a cyclone can reorganize its circulation and lead to rapid strengthening.
How does global warming influence hurricane strength?
There has been an increase in rapid intensification events over the past 40 years, which is linked to climate change.
Studies suggest that human-induced climate change plays a role in the rising frequency of these storms, with projections indicating more major hurricanes as global temperatures rise.
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