Subject: World Geography

The formation and movement of tropical cyclones are primarily concentrated in specific oceanic regions due to a unique combination of geographical and meteorological factors.

Favorable Conditions for Tropical Cyclone Formation

• Sea Surface Temperature (SST): These regions maintain temperatures above 26.5°C, essential for cyclone formation and intensification.
• Coriolis Force: The Coriolis effect is significant enough (beyond 5° latitude) to create the necessary rotation for cyclone development.
• Low-Level Convergence: These regions experience strong convergence of trade winds, promoting cyclonic circulation.
• Upper-Level Divergence: Presence of favorable wind patterns in the upper troposphere aids in cyclone development.

Regional Characteristics

South China Sea

• Located in the Western Pacific warm pool with consistently high SSTs.
• Experiences seasonal monsoon circulation that provides necessary moisture and wind patterns.
• Protected by surrounding landmasses, allowing cyclones to intensify without disruption.

Bay of Bengal

• Funnel-shaped basin that concentrates wind energy and moisture.
• Experiences both pre-monsoon (April-May) and post-monsoon (October-November) cyclone seasons.
• High SSTs and humidity levels throughout the year promote cyclone formation.

Gulf of Mexico

• Influenced by the warm Loop Current maintaining favorable SSTs.
• Experiences peak activity during the Atlantic hurricane season (June-November).
• Semi-enclosed nature allows for cyclone intensification with minimal interference.

Limiting Factors in Other Regions

• Cold Ocean Currents: Regions like the western coasts of continents have cold currents preventing cyclone formation.
• Wind Shear: Strong vertical wind shear in some oceanic regions disrupts cyclone development.
• Lack of Coriolis Force: Near-equatorial regions (within 5° latitude) lack sufficient Coriolis effect.

The combined presence of these favorable conditions in the South China Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Gulf of Mexico makes them primary breeding grounds for tropical cyclones, while their absence in other regions limits cyclone formation.