Topic Summaries

Effect of climate change on tropical storms

IGCSE > Geography > Pearson IGCSE > IGCSE Geography Topic Summaries > Tropical storm hazards > Effect of climate change on tropical storms
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Weather hazards and atmospheric circulation

Hot desert ecosystems

Cold environment ecosystems

Glacial landscapes

Glacial landform processes

Energy supply

  • Distribution: rising sea temperatures due to climate change may expand in areas where tropical storms can form. This can lead to frequent storms in the South Atlantic, where tropical storms are rare, and more storms forming in the subtropics (areas further from the equator) as warmer seas provide the necessary conditions for storm development.
  • Frequency: the overall frequency of tropical storms is expected to remain or decrease. However, the types of storms may change: Category 1–3 storms (weaker storms) are expected to decrease, whereas Category 4 and 5 storms (the most intense storms) are expected to increase due to warmer seas providing more energy, fuelling stronger storms.
  • Intensity: the intensity of tropical storms is likely to increase as sea surface temperatures rise. Warmer oceans provide energy for storms, leading to stronger winds, heavier rainfall, and more destructive storms overall.

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