Typhoon Yagi has been one of the most devastating tropical cyclones of the year, ranking as the second most powerful storm globally after Hurricane Beryl. The typhoon has wreaked havoc across Southeast Asia, affecting countries such as the Philippines, China, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and particularly Vietnam.
Impact on Southeast Asia
- Vietnam: Hardest hit, with approximately 233 fatalities reported. The death toll across all affected countries has surpassed 300, with numbers expected to rise as more people remain missing.
- Other Affected Countries: The storm has significantly impacted the Philippines, China, Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand, with ongoing damages and rescue efforts.
Formation and Development of Tropical Cyclones
Tropical cyclones typically form over warm ocean waters near the equator. The process involves:
- Warm, Moist Air Rising: Warm air from the ocean surface rises, creating a lower pressure area below.
- Formation of Clouds and Storms: As the moist air rises, it cools and condenses to form clouds and thunderstorms.
- Cyclone Strengthening: The system gains strength from the ocean’s heat and evaporated water.
Classification and Categories
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), tropical cyclones are categorized based on sustained wind speeds:
- Tropical Depression: Weakest category.
- Tropical Storm: Winds reach 39 miles per hour (63 kmph).
- Hurricane/Typhoon/Tropical Cyclone: Winds of 119 kmph and above, classified into five categories:
- Category 1: Winds of 119 to 153 kmph.
- Category 5: Winds of 252 kmph or higher.
Typhoon Yagi’s Journey
- September 1: Began as a tropical storm in the western Philippine Sea.
- September 2: Made landfall in the Philippines and initially weakened.
- September 4: Intensified to a Category 3 typhoon.
- September 5: Strengthened to a Category 5 typhoon with winds of 260 kmph.
- September 6: Made landfall in China’s Hainan province with winds of 223 kmph.
- September 7: Hit northern Vietnam near Haiphong, causing severe damage.
Post-Storm Effects
Even after being downgraded to a tropical depression, Typhoon Yagi continued to cause heavy rains and floods, particularly impacting Myanmar and the capital, Naypyidaw.
Climate Change and Tropical Cyclones
The relationship between climate change and tropical cyclones remains complex, with several factors influencing storm formation and intensity. Key points include:
- Rising Global Temperatures: Higher ocean surface temperatures contribute to more intense cyclones.
- Marine Heat Waves: Increased sea surface temperatures can lead to more severe storms.
- Intensification Patterns: Cyclones are forming closer to coastlines and becoming more intense and long-lasting.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- Which tropical cyclone is the strongest storm in Asia this year?
- A) Typhoon Yagi
- B) Hurricane Beryl
- C) Cyclone Pam
- D) Typhoon Rammasun
- What is the primary factor in the formation of tropical cyclones?
- A) Cold ocean waters
- B) Warm, moist air
- C) High-pressure systems
- D) Strong winds
- What is the maximum wind speed for a Category 5 tropical cyclone?
- A) 119 kmph
- B) 153 kmph
- C) 260 kmph
- D) 200 kmph
- On which date did Typhoon Yagi reach Category 5 status?
- A) September 1
- B) September 2
- C) September 4
- D) September 5
- Which country was hardest hit by Typhoon Yagi?
- A) Philippines
- B) China
- C) Vietnam
- D) Thailand