what causes hurricanes to increase in strength
1. Warm ocean waters: Hurricanes draw their energy from warm ocean waters, so as sea surface temperatures rise, the potential for stronger hurricanes also increases.
2. Climate change: The overall warming of the planet due to human activities is believed to be contributing to the increased frequency and intensity of hurricanes.
3. Wind shear: When there is less wind shear (difference in wind speed and direction at different altitudes), hurricanes are able to organize and strengthen more effectively.
4. Atmospheric moisture: Higher levels of moisture in the atmosphere can fuel the development and intensification of hurricanes.
5. Storm intensity feedback mechanism: As hurricanes intensify, they can create their own environment that promotes further strengthening, known as the storm intensity feedback mechanism.
6. Natural variability: While climate change is a contributing factor, natural variability in the climate system can also lead to fluctuations in hurricane intensity.