swirl

meteorology

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July 16, 2026

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In meteorology, "swirls" refer to small-scale, intense, and short-lived vortices that can occur within tropical cyclones, specifically under convective towers in the eyewall. These are distinct from tornadoes because their peak winds last only a few seconds. Swirls can rotate either counterclockwise or clockwise, with estimated peak winds approaching 320 km (200 miles) per hour. While the term "swirl" can also describe the general motion of liquids or objects in a circular path, in the context of meteorology, it specifically denotes these localized wind features within severe weather systems.12

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tropical cyclone
Gusts, downbursts, and swirls
In addition to tornadoes, tropical cyclones generate other localized damaging winds. When a tropical cyclone makes landfall, surface friction decreases wind speed but increases turbulence; this allows fast-moving air aloft to be transported down to the surface, thereby increasing the strength of wind gusts.…
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In addition to tornadoes, tropical cyclones generate other localized damaging winds. When a tropical cyclone makes landfall, surface friction decreases wind speed but increases turbulence; this allows fast-moving air aloft to be transported down to the surface, thereby increasing the strength of wind gusts.…
Read More