Several factors contribute to the increased likelihood of hurricane formation in specific regions:
Warm Ocean Temperatures: Hurricanes are fueled by the vast amount of energy released when warm ocean water evaporates. Water temperatures above 26°C (80°F) provide the necessary energy for a hurricane to develop and intensify. This explains why hurricanes are most common in tropical and subtropical regions, where ocean temperatures are consistently warm.
Coriolis Force* Earth's rotation creates the Coriolis force, which deflects winds and contributes to the rotational motion of a hurricane. This force is absent at the equator but becomes increasingly strong as you move away.
Low Pressure and Wind Convergence: Hurricanes form in areas of low atmospheric pressure, where air rises and creates a vacuum effect, pulling in surrounding air. This convergence of winds provides additional energy and moisture for the storm to grow. Areas with consistent low pressure, like the subtropical highs and the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), are more prone to hurricane formation.