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Subject : C1) Doesn't the low pressure in the tropical cyclone center cause the storm surge?

Contributed by NHC Storm Surge Unit

Actually the central pressure has little effect on storm surge. Of greater importance are the high wind speeds acting on the ocean surface, combined with the size and forward speed of the storm. The height of the surge is also determined by the coastline and the angle the storm takes to it, the width and slope of the continental shelf off shore, and such local features as bays, rivers, headlands, islands, etc..

local features impact on storm surge

Last Updated : May 14, 2010

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