Final answer:
Wind speeds up to 38 miles per hour are indicative of a tropical depression, which precedes a tropical storm and then a hurricane if wind speeds increase further.
Step-by-step explanation:
Conditions with wind speeds up to 38 miles per hour meet the criteria for a tropical depression. This is the initial phase of a cyclonic system that can develop over warm ocean waters. If the wind speed of the system increases to between 39 and 73 miles per hour, it is then classified as a tropical storm.
Finally, when the winds reach a sustained speed of at least 74 miles per hour, the storm is upgraded to a hurricane. These storm categories aid in issuing warnings and preparing for possible impacts, including strong winds, heavy rains, and potential damage.
A tropical depression with wind speeds between 25 and 38 miles per hour is classified as a tropical depression. It is the first stage in the formation of a hurricane. When the wind speeds reach a sustained speed of 39 to 73 miles per hour, it is upgraded to a tropical storm, and when it reaches 74 miles per hour, it is classified as a hurricane.