PATHS OF THE OCEAN

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Weather Systems of the Tropics

The Tropics – Not Always Paradise

The tropics are defined geographically by the Tropic of Cancer to the north and the Tropic of Capricorn to the

south. Visions of this area typically contain tranquil images of giant palm trees and warm, calm, crystal-clear

waters.

However this region has a very diverse weather system caused by the ocean and warm temperatures. The rainy

season in the Tropics typically runs from October until March. Keep in mind that this area on the planet is one

that receives the most direct sunlight. The heat from the sun causes the rain to evaporate, which then rises,

condenses and then falls as rain.

As the season progresses, there is a range of weather disturbances: Tropical Depressions, Tropical Storms and

Hurricanes or Typhoons. The differences between the variable disturbances are typically categorised in this

manner.

Geo Average Temp Average Rainfall Average # of storms

Tropics 31 C 182 cm 10

Desert 43 C 15 cm 2

Savannahs 24 C 91 cm 6