Cyclone vs. Hurricane

Cyclones and hurricanes are two types of strong, spiraling storms that can be very destructive.

A cyclone is a large, destructive storm that is comprised of strong winds rotating around a center of low pressure. Depending on the region, a cyclone may be referred to as a typhoon or hurricane. Cyclones are very powerful and can move at 20-30 miles per hour. The strong winds are usually accompanied by rain. Their intensity is measured on the Beauford scale or the Saffir-Simpson scale.

A hurricane is an extremely large, destructive storm that is comprised of winds exceeding 74 miles per hour. They generally begin over water (especially the western Atlantic) and lose power once they move over land. They are usually accompanied by rain, thunder, and lightning. Their strength is measured from 1 to 5 on a scale called the Saffir-Simpson scale.

Hurricanes can begin as tropical cyclones, but often move into temperate areas. North of the equator, cyclones and hurricanes rotate in a counterclockwise direction. South of the equator, they rotate in a clockwise direction.