Language
Country/Area
No result found
The strange process of typhoon naming: Why not use people's names?
Typhoon, as a type of tropical cyclone, poses numerous threats to humans every year, but there is an unknown story behind its name. The word typhoon originated in ancient times and has undergone changes to become what we are familiar with today. Its naming rules are not derived from people's names. This article will give you an in-depth understanding of this wonderful process.
Definition and formation of typhoons
In the Northern Hemisphere, a typhoon is a tropical cyclone between 180° and 100°E with sustained winds of at least 119 km/h. This area, known as the Northwest Pacific Basin, accounts for a third of the world's tropical cyclones. In contrast, tropical cyclones in other regions, such as hurricanes, have their own specific naming rules.
"The formation of a typhoon requires several key conditions, including sufficiently warm sea surface temperatures, atmospheric instability, and high humidity in the lower levels."
History of Typhoon Naming
The names of typhoons come from the attention and needs of various countries on tropical cyclones. Typhoons are named differently depending on the region and country. For example, typhoons in the northwest Pacific usually come from names jointly submitted by 14 Southeast Asian and East Asian countries and regions, and typhoon names that lose their influence will be replaced or retired at the next meeting.
Why not use people’s names?
This question may make many readers curious. Unlike storm naming in other regions, typhoons in the northwest Pacific do not use human names. The reasons behind this include the following:
- Avoid offense: Typhoon names are often associated with certain cultural or historical figures, and using these names may cause controversy or unwanted emotional reactions.
- Scientific considerations: Using non-human names can reduce the emotional impact of typhoons and more clearly convey the severity of their damage.
- Consistent naming convention: This strategy makes it easier for all parties to remember and identify typhoons, thereby responding to them in a timely and effective manner.
Diversity in typhoon naming
Although typhoon names in most areas are based on plants, animals, astrological symbols and natural phenomena, in countries such as the Philippines, human names are still used. In addition, some countries assign numbers to facilitate tracking and management of typhoon travel.
"Compared to using human names, using animal and plant names can better arouse public attention and keep people vigilant."
When a typhoon comes
Before a typhoon arrives, meteorological bureaus in various countries will issue early warnings to help people prepare. Through precise data analysis and weather forecasts, these agencies are able to timely update the typhoon’s path and intensity to ensure the safety of the public.
The impact of typhoons and the future
With the uncertainty brought about by climate change, the frequency and intensity of typhoons may change. Studies have shown that tropical cyclones may become more intense in the future, which makes our research and practice on typhoon naming particularly important.
"Understanding the meaning behind typhoon names may help people better understand and respond to these natural disasters."
After reflecting on the history of typhoon naming, should we reconsider incorporating human names into such a naming system to make it more humane, and even easier to remember and respond to?
