Factors Affecting Hurricane Development in the Atlantic Ocean: Quick Facts

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Last updated

Oct. 9, 2026

Photos

Satellite view of Hurricane Hugo, showing a large, swirling white cloud mass with a distinct eye approaching the South Carolina coast near Charleston.

North Atlantic hurricane season

Diagram showing the development and progression of a North Atlantic hurricane, from tropical disturbance near Africa, through tropical depression and storm stages, to hurricane status, then transitioning to extratropical cyclone as it moves toward Europe and North America, with labeled arrows indicating wind patterns and ocean currents.

Diagram comparing rocket trajectories on a nonrotating Earth versus a rotating Earth, illustrating the Coriolis force. The top panels show a straight path from the North Pole to the equator on a nonrotating Earth, while the bottom panels show the rocket's path curving west of the target due to Earth's rotation, with labeled continents, launch site, target, and actual destination.

Dust from the Sahara

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