What is an extratropical cyclone, which called alert in the southern region of Brazil

The formation of an extratropical cyclone near the south of Brazil should cause winds and heavy rains in several parts of the country from the night of this Wednesday (12).

In June, a strong cyclone left 14 people dead in Rio Grande do Sul, and caused landslides, flash floods, floods and bridge collapses.

What is a cyclone?

According to MetSul Meteorologia, this phenomenon is characterized by a low atmospheric pressure system that occurs in mid-latitudes, that is, far from the equatorial region.

Extratropical cyclones are common in regions such as Europe, North America and Asia, but they can also occur in countries such as Brazil. These cyclones are often characterized by strong winds, heavy rain and even snow, depending on the region.

How do cyclones form?

According to the CNN , extratropical cyclones usually form from the temperature difference between the equatorial region and mid-latitudes. This is because warm air from the equatorial region rises and cold air from mid-latitudes sinks, creating a conflict zone that can generate cyclones.

In addition, the presence of air currents at different altitudes can also contribute to the formation of these phenomena.

types of cyclones

According to the Center for Weather Forecasting and Climate Studies (CPTEC), of the National Institute for Space Research (Inpe), cyclones appear mainly over the oceans, generally in tropical regions. [entre os trópicos de Câncer e Capricórnio]can last several days and move over long distances, becoming, in some cases, very intense.

There are also cases where these phenomena occur outside tropical regions. When they occur outside these zones, they are called extratropical cyclones.

In tropical events, the energy comes from the evaporation of sea water. In the extratropics, however, there is an associated cold front. The winds are weaker and the energy comes from horizontal thermal contrasts, that is, a cold air mass next to a warm air mass.

Measures to minimize the impact of cyclones

Civil Defense warns that it is important to adopt preventive measures to minimize the impacts of these phenomena.

Among the recommended measures are constant monitoring of the weather forecast, carrying out infrastructure works to prevent floods and landslides, and raising awareness among the population about the importance of staying safe during the passage of cyclones.