During hurricane season, one key factor we monitor is wind shear. This phenomenon involves changes in wind speed or direction with altitude, posing a significant challenge to hurricanes, particularly when they are in their early stages.

For a storm that is still developing, intense winds higher in the atmosphere can severely impact it. These winds can tilt the storm, exposing the storm’s core and cutting off its essential energy, potentially causing it to weaken drastically or even vanish entirely before it poses a serious threat.

Conversely, a more developed, stronger hurricane is better equipped to withstand wind shear. Its sturdy structure allows it to endure in adverse conditions, although it may still lose some strength but won’t necessarily disband immediately.

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