How a Hurricane Forms

The global pattern of tropical storms is distinct. Most storms form between 5° and 20° north and south of the Equator because the water in these areas is warmer than 26° C. The water becomes too cold for them to form as the distance increases beyond 20° north and south. El Niño can contribute to stronger storm activity in the eastern Pacific Ocean, which affects the west coast of Middle America. Watch this video on how hurricanes form.