A tropical cyclone is a powerful, rotating storm system that forms over warm ocean waters in tropical and subtropical regions. It is characterized by a low-pressure center, strong winds, and heavy rainfall. These storms are called hurricanes in the Atlantic and eastern Pacific, typhoons in the western Pacific, and simply cyclones in the Indian Ocean and South Pacific. Tropical cyclones develop when warm, moist air rises, creating a spiraling system of thunderstorms. They can cause severe damage through storm surges, flooding, and high winds. Their intensity is classified using different scales, such as the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.