What is a typhoon?

•Question 1:  How does a typhoon form and where does the typhoon occur in?

•Question 2:  How to understand “the storm surge”?

A typhoon is a violent, low-pressure tropical storm that occurs in the western Pacific Ocean. Typhoons are similar to hurricanes. Typhoons begin near the equator and move westward, gathering intensity and size. They advance slowly, usually at about 10 to 15 miles (16 to 24 kilometers) per hour. But the circular winds around the center are very strong, often reaching speeds of 150 miles (240 kilometers) per hour. The diameter can be as large as 300 miles (480 kilometers).

The heavy rains and powerful winds of a typhoon can cause severe land and property damage and loss of life. A violent and destructive rush of seawater, called a storm surge, also often accompanies a typhoon as it moves onto land.