Tracking Tropical Cyclone Honde in the Mozambique Channel

Tropical Cyclone Honde was located in the Mozambique Channel, with wind speeds of 69 mph. It exemplifies the characteristics of tropical cyclones in the Southern Hemisphere, which are distinct from hurricanes. The cyclone season runs from late October through May, with peak activity typically occurring in late February and early March.

On Wednesday afternoon, Eastern Time, Tropical Cyclone Honde was observed in the Mozambique Channel, according to the latest advisory from the Joint Typhoon Warning Center. The storm exhibited sustained wind speeds of approximately 69 miles per hour. In the Southern Hemisphere, only about a quarter of the world’s tropical cyclones occur, differentiating them from hurricanes in the Atlantic, as these storms are referred to as cyclones when their winds reach 74 mph or greater. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that cyclones in the Southern Hemisphere rotate clockwise, in contrast to the counterclockwise rotation of hurricanes.

Tropical cyclones can affect various regions, including eastern Africa and particularly Madagascar, along with the western, northern, and eastern coasts of Australia and its neighboring islands. The cyclone season in the Southern Hemisphere commences later than in other parts of the world, typically beginning in late October and extending through May. The peak periods of cyclone activity may vary across regions, but generally, the highest activities are observed in late February and early March.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Honde is currently situated in the Mozambique Channel, exhibiting considerable wind speeds. As a cyclone in the Southern Hemisphere, it differs from hurricanes in its rotation and regional naming conventions. Understanding the cyclonic patterns and seasons is crucial for forecasting and preparing for potential impacts in affected regions.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com