Tuffoon, also spelled typhoon, is a noun that refers to a large and powerful tropical cyclone or hurricane that originates in the western Pacific Ocean. This term is predominantly used in the context of meteorology.
A tuffoon is characterized by strong winds exceeding 74 miles per hour (119 kilometers per hour) and heavy torrential rains, often leading to destructive and devastating consequences. These weather systems typically form during the typhoon season, which is most prevalent during the months of June to November.
The central feature of a tuffoon is a low-pressure area with intense thunderstorms surrounding it. It often develops within a tropical disturbance or an area of low atmospheric pressure, gaining momentum and organization as it moves over warm ocean waters. These storms can span hundreds of miles in diameter and exhibit a distinctive spiral shape with an "eye" at the center, which may be calm or filled with clouds.
Tuffoons pose severe threats to coastal regions, primarily due to their strong winds and heavy rainfall, which can trigger flash floods, landslides, and storm surges. These natural disasters can cause extensive damage to infrastructure, property, and loss of life. They can also disrupt transport and communication systems, as well as cause disruptions to the local economy.
The word "tuffoon" originated from the Cantonese language, derived from the Chinese term "daaih-fùng," meaning "great wind." This term was adopted by English-speaking countries to describe the tropical cyclones prevalent in the western Pacific region. Overall, tuffoons represent one of nature's most violent and formidable weather phenomena.
