Extreme wind speeds caused by tropical cyclones formed in areas with high sea surface temperatures which may be exacerbated by ocean warming.
Tropical cyclones, also known as hurricanes and typhoons, cause significant destruction through high winds, storm surge and rainfall. Numerous studies link sea surface temperature to tropical cyclone development and strengthening of cyclogenesis that bring strong winds.
Sea Surface Temperatures (SST) will increase under climate change. While the frequency of tropical cyclones is projected to remain relatively constant with increased atmospheric temperatures, studies suggest significant increases in the proportion of Category 4 and 5 (the most severe) cyclones across the majority of ocean basins. The rate of increase is subject to future warming scenarios.
The severity of tropical cyclones is also expected to be affected, with the maximum wind intensity expected to rise with warming, providing longer and more favourable conditions for extreme weather conditions.