Introduction:
A powerful windstorm that forms over warm ocean waters is called a hurricane. Hurricanes are one of the most destructive natural disasters, capable of causing significant damage to coastal areas and posing a threat to human lives.

Explanation:
- Hurricanes: A hurricane is a large, swirling storm with strong winds and heavy rain that forms over warm ocean waters. It is also known as a tropical cyclone or typhoon, depending on the region where it occurs. Hurricanes typically develop in the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and the eastern Pacific Ocean.
- Formation: Hurricanes form when several specific conditions are met. First, the ocean water temperature must be at least 26.5 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit) to provide the necessary energy for the storm. Second, there must be a pre-existing weather disturbance, such as a tropical wave or low-pressure system, to initiate the formation of a hurricane. Third, there must be low wind shear, which allows the storm to maintain its structure and intensify.
- Stages: A hurricane goes through different stages of development. It starts as a tropical disturbance, which is a cluster of thunderstorms with a weak circulation. If the disturbance continues to strengthen, it becomes a tropical depression with sustained winds below 39 miles per hour. As the winds intensify, it becomes a tropical storm with winds ranging from 39 to 73 miles per hour. Finally, when the sustained winds reach 74 miles per hour or more, it is classified as a hurricane.
- Structure: A hurricane has a well-defined center called the eye, surrounded by a circular band of intense thunderstorms known as the eyewall. The eyewall is where the strongest winds and heaviest rainfall occur. Outside the eyewall, there are spiral rainbands that can extend for hundreds of miles from the center of the storm.
- Impact: Hurricanes can cause significant damage due to their strong winds, storm surge, and heavy rainfall. The high winds can uproot trees, destroy buildings, and cause power outages. Storm surge, which is a rise in sea level, can flood coastal areas and erode beaches. The heavy rainfall associated with hurricanes can lead to flash floods and landslides, further exacerbating the damage.
- Preparation and Safety: It is important for people living in hurricane-prone areas to have a plan in place and be prepared for the arrival of a hurricane. This includes securing loose items, stocking up on essential supplies, and following evacuation orders if necessary. During a hurricane, it is crucial to stay indoors, away from windows, and listen to updates from local authorities.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, a hurricane is a powerful windstorm that forms over warm ocean waters. It is characterized by strong winds, heavy rain, and a well-defined structure. Understanding hurricanes and taking appropriate safety measures is essential for those living in areas prone to these destructive storms.