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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..
Last Updated : May 14, 2010
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