The Difference Between a Tropical Storm Vs Hurricane

When it comes to powerful weather systems, it’s common to wonder about the difference between a tropical storm and a hurricane. They are closely related because they both develop from tropical cyclones, which are storm systems that form over warm ocean water.

The main difference comes down to wind speed. A tropical storm has maximum sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph. A hurricane has maximum sustained winds of 74 mph or higher.

Still, both can bring dangerous conditions, including heavy rain, flooding, rough surf, rip currents, power outages, and coastal impacts. Here’s what to know before the next storm shows up in the forecast.

Tropical Storm vs. Hurricane: What They Have in Common

Tropical storms and hurricanes both need warm ocean water, moisture, and favorable atmospheric conditions to develop. Warm water helps fuel these systems by causing air above the ocean to rise, creating lower pressure near the surface.