The most powerful storm is the hurricane.

It is a large, swirling, low-pressure system that forms over the mid Atlantic ocean.

Its like a machine that turns the heat energy from the ocean into wind.

Similar storms are called typhoons and cyclones but there not as strong

There are several elements that—when combined at the "right" amount of time and under the "right" conditions—will create a hurricane

The beginning of life for any hurricane is a pre-existing tropical disturbance—an area of low atmospheric pressure

The warmth and moisture of the ocean during late summer and early fall months energizes the pre-storm conditions and leads to thunderstorms.

If thunderstorms persist and winds pick up to 40 miles per hour, the tropical disturbance officially becomes a tropical storm.

After a set amount of time, if the heat and water moisture continue to rise it will eventually turn into a hurricane.

When a hurricane strikes land, high wind, tornadoes, heavy rains, and high waves cause a lot of damage.

Floods from the rain can cause additional damage

Hurricane weather can destroy crops, demolish buildings, kill people, and other animals..

As long as its over water, the warm, moist air rises and provides energy for the storm.