ABSTRACT
They are a hazard to the human system due to the generation of very high winds by the local steep pressure gradient.
• Hurricanes are larger in scale, both in space and time, and in the main are confined to tropical and subtropical areas. They are intrinsically linked by process to air-sea interactions and by distribution to global wind systems. They link to the human system as a direct atmosphere hazard but also produce secondary hazards (storm surges) in coastal areas. Monitoring technology has improved forecasting in susceptible areas and reduced the hazard there by advanced warning and preparation. Extratropical hurricanes produced by rare conditions outside the tropical zone may therefore impact more due to the lack of preparedness for these infrequent events.
