What is required for a cyclone to form?

For a cyclone to form, warm ocean water is essential. This is because cyclones derive their energy from the heat of warm ocean waters, typically those that are at least 26.5 degrees Celsius (about 80 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher. The warm water evaporates, leading to moist air rising and creating an area of low pressure. As the air rises, it cools, and the moisture condenses, releasing latent heat, which further fuels the storm. This process is critical to developing the characteristic wind patterns and organization of a cyclone.

In contrast, cold ocean water would not provide the necessary heat or energy to drive the storm's formation, nor would strong winds on their own sustain a cyclone without the warm water. High pressure systems also generally inhibit cyclone formation since they are typically associated with stable and descending air, which is not conducive to the upward movement of air required for cyclone development. Thus, warm ocean water is a fundamental requirement for the initiation and growth of cyclones.