What is the eye of a tropical storm?

The eye of a tropical storm is a calm, clear area at the storm's centre, surrounded by intense activity.

In more detail, the eye of a tropical storm is typically characterised by light winds and clear skies, making it a stark contrast to the violent weather surrounding it. This calm area can range from 20 to 40 kilometres in diameter. The eye forms because the strong winds that spiral around the storm's centre create a centrifugal force, pushing air outwards and causing a drop in pressure at the centre. This low-pressure area allows air to descend, warming it and causing the clouds to dissipate, resulting in the clear, calm conditions observed in the eye.

Surrounding the eye is the eyewall, a ring of towering thunderstorms where the most severe weather occurs. The eyewall is where you’ll find the strongest winds, heaviest rains, and most intense thunderstorms of the storm. The contrast between the calm eye and the ferocious eyewall is one of the most dramatic features of a tropical storm.

Understanding the eye of a tropical storm is crucial for meteorologists when predicting the storm's path and potential impact. The eye's formation and characteristics can provide valuable information about the storm's strength and development. For instance, a well-defined eye usually indicates a strong and mature storm, while a ragged or poorly defined eye might suggest a weakening system.

In summary, the eye of a tropical storm is a fascinating and critical feature that plays a significant role in the storm's overall structure and behaviour. It provides a unique window into the dynamics of these powerful natural phenomena.