Tracking Tropical Cyclone Honde in the Mozambique Channel

Tropical Cyclone Honde was reported in the Mozambique Channel with sustained winds of 69 mph. In the Southern Hemisphere, cyclones differ from hurricanes, with unique rotational and seasonal characteristics. Cyclones can affect eastern Africa and Australia, with their season occurring from late October to May, peaking in late February and early March.

On Wednesday afternoon, Eastern Time, the Joint Typhoon Warning Center reported that Tropical Cyclone Honde was situated in the Mozambique Channel. With sustained winds reaching 69 miles per hour, Honde demonstrates the conditions of significant tropical systems.

Notably, only a quarter of the world’s tropical cyclones originate in the Southern Hemisphere. While cyclones with winds of 74 miles per hour or higher are referred to as hurricanes in the Atlantic, they are termed cyclones in this region. Furthermore, an interesting distinction is that cyclones in the Southern Hemisphere rotate clockwise, in contrast to the counterclockwise rotation of hurricanes.

Cyclones can have a substantial impact on eastern Africa, particularly Madagascar, along with the western, northern, and eastern coasts of Australia and nearby islands. The cyclone season in the Southern Hemisphere commences in late October and extends until May, with the highest frequency of events typically occurring in late February and early March.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Honde has emerged in the Mozambique Channel, showcasing significant wind speeds. Cyclones in the Southern Hemisphere, distinct from hurricanes, demonstrate unique rotational characteristics and seasonal patterns. These storms pose risks to various coastal regions, highlighting the importance of monitoring and preparedness.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com