When a storm is brewing on the horizon, meteorologists and storm chasers alike often refer to it as an “invest” – but have you ever stopped to think about why that is? The term “invest” may seem like a random label attached to a complex weather system, but behind it lies a rich history and a precise meaning. In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of storm nomenclature and explore the reasons why storms are called invest.
The Origins of “Invest”
The term “invest” in the context of storms originated in the 1960s, when the National Hurricane Center (NHC) began using it to identify areas of disturbed weather that had the potential to develop into tropical cyclones. The acronym “INVEST” stands for “Investigation,” and it was initially used to distinguish these systems from other weather disturbances that were not considered tropical in nature.
At the time, the NHC was responsible for issuing advisories and warnings for tropical cyclones, but they didn’t have a specific system in place for monitoring and tracking systems that were not yet fully formed. The introduction of the “invest” designation allowed the NHC to flag these systems for further observation and analysis, enabling them to provide more accurate and timely forecasts.
Tropical Cyclone Development
So, what exactly is an “invest”? In simple terms, an invest is an area of low pressure that has the potential to develop into a tropical cyclone, such as a hurricane, typhoon, or cyclone. These systems typically form over warm ocean waters, where the combination of heat, moisture, and low pressure creates a conducive environment for tropical cyclone development.
The journey from an invest to a full-fledged tropical cyclone involves a complex series of steps. First, the area of low pressure must become organized, with thunderstorms and winds circulating around the center of the system. As the system strengthens, it begins to take on the characteristics of a tropical depression, with sustained winds of 38 mph (33 knots) or less.
If the system continues to intensify, it may eventually become a tropical storm, with sustained winds of 39-73 mph (34-63 knots). Finally, if the storm reaches winds of 74 mph (64 knots) or higher, it is classified as a hurricane, typhoon, or cyclone, depending on the part of the world in which it occurs.
The Role of the NHC
The National Hurricane Center plays a critical role in monitoring and tracking invests, tropical depressions, and tropical cyclones. Using a range of data sources, including satellite imagery, aircraft reconnaissance, and surface weather stations, the NHC issues advisories and warnings to inform the public of potential threats from these systems.
When an invest is identified, the NHC will typically issue a Tropical Cyclone Formation Alert (TCFA), which indicates that the system has a high probability of developing into a tropical cyclone within 48 hours. As the system strengthens, the NHC will issue further advisories, including Tropical Depression Advisories and Hurricane Watches or Warnings, to alert the public of the potential risks and hazards associated with the storm.
Why “Invest” and Not Something Else?
So, why did the NHC choose the term “invest” to describe these systems, rather than something else? The answer lies in the nature of the storms themselves. An invest is not yet a fully formed tropical cyclone, but rather a precursor to one. It’s an area of disturbed weather that has the potential to develop into something more significant.
The term “invest” reflects the uncertainty and unpredictability of these systems. Rather than labeling them as full-fledged storms, the “invest” designation acknowledges that they may or may not develop further. It’s a way of saying, “We’re watching this system closely, but we’re not yet sure what it will become.”
In contrast, if the NHC were to label these systems as “storms” or “hurricanes,” it could create unnecessary panic and confusion among the public. By using the term “invest,” the NHC can provide a clear and accurate description of the situation, without overstating the risks or dangers associated with the system.
Other Storm Designations
While the term “invest” is unique to the NHC, other meteorological agencies around the world use similar designations to describe areas of disturbed weather. In the western Pacific, for example, the Japan Meteorological Agency uses the term “tropical disturbance” to describe systems that may develop into typhoons or tropical storms.
In Australia, the Bureau of Meteorology uses the term “tropical low” to describe systems that have the potential to develop into tropical cyclones. Similarly, in India, the India Meteorological Department uses the term “low-pressure system” to describe areas of disturbed weather that may develop into cyclones or tropical storms.
Conclusion
The term “invest” may seem like a simple label, but behind it lies a rich history and a precise meaning. By understanding the origins and significance of the term, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complex world of storm nomenclature and the important work of meteorologists and storm chasers around the world.
So the next time you hear the term “invest” in a weather forecast, remember that it’s not just a random label – it’s a signal that a powerful storm may be brewing, and it’s time to pay attention.
| System | Wind Speed | Classification |
|---|---|---|
| Tropical Depression | 38 mph (33 knots) or less | Weak, disorganized system |
| Tropical Storm | 39-73 mph (34-63 knots) | Organized system with strong winds |
| Hurricane/Typhoon/Cyclone | 74 mph (64 knots) or higher | Powerful, intense system with strong winds and heavy rainfall |
Note: The wind speeds listed are for tropical cyclones in the Atlantic and northeast Pacific. Wind speeds may vary slightly for storms in other parts of the world.
What does the term “Invest” mean in the context of tropical cyclones?
The term “Invest” is an abbreviation for “Investigation”. It is a designation given to a weather system that has the potential to develop into a tropical cyclone. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) uses this term to identify areas of disturbed weather that are being closely monitored for possible development into a tropical depression or storm.
The NHC assigns an “Invest” designation to a system when it exhibits certain characteristics, such as a closed circulation, thunderstorms, and sustained winds. This allows forecasters to track the system and provide updates to the public on its potential development. The “Invest” designation is an important tool for meteorologists, as it helps them to identify systems that may pose a threat to land or marine interests.
Why are storms called “Invest” and not given a name?
Storms are called “Invest” because they do not yet meet the criteria for a named storm. In order for a storm to be named, it must meet certain criteria, such as reaching sustained winds of 39 mph or higher. Until a storm reaches this threshold, it is referred to as an “Invest” or a “Tropical Disturbance”.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) maintains a list of names that are assigned to storms in alphabetical order. However, a storm must meet certain criteria before it can be given a name. The “Invest” designation allows forecasters to track and monitor the system without assigning a name that may not be necessary.
How are “Invests” different from tropical depressions or storms?
” Invests” are different from tropical depressions or storms in that they do not yet meet the criteria for a named storm. A tropical depression has sustained winds of 38 mph or less, while a tropical storm has sustained winds of 39 mph or higher. An “Invest” is a system that has the potential to develop into a tropical depression or storm, but has not yet reached those wind speeds.
The main difference between an “Invest” and a tropical depression or storm is the level of organization and strength. An “Invest” may have a less defined circulation, fewer thunderstorms, and weaker winds than a tropical depression or storm. However, an “Invest” can still bring heavy rain, strong winds, and rough seas, making it important to monitor its progress.
How long does an “Invest” designation typically last?
The length of time an “Invest” designation lasts can vary greatly, depending on the strength and organization of the system. In some cases, an “Invest” designation may only last a few hours, while in other cases it may last for several days.
Factors such as the system’s distance from land, its speed of movement, and its interaction with other weather systems can all impact how long an “Invest” designation lasts. Generally, the NHC will continue to monitor an “Invest” until it either develops into a tropical depression or storm, or until it dissipates and no longer poses a threat.
Can an “Invest” affect the weather even if it doesn’t develop into a storm?
Yes, an “Invest” can still affect the weather even if it doesn’t develop into a storm. An “Invest” can bring heavy rain, strong winds, and rough seas, even if it doesn’t reach tropical depression or storm strength.
The rain and wind associated with an “Invest” can still cause flooding, power outages, and other hazards, especially if it interacts with other weather systems or moves slowly over a particular area. Additionally, the rough seas and strong winds associated with an “Invest” can pose a threat to mariners and coastal interests, even if the system doesn’t develop into a storm.
How do forecasters decide when to upgrade an “Invest” to a tropical depression or storm?
Forecasters use a variety of tools and data to decide when to upgrade an “Invest” to a tropical depression or storm. These tools include satellite imagery, computer models, and data from reconnaissance aircraft.
The NHC uses a set of criteria, such as the system’s wind speed, central pressure, and organization, to determine when to upgrade an “Invest” to a tropical depression or storm. Forecasters also use their expertise and knowledge of tropical cyclone behavior to make this decision. If the system meets the criteria for a tropical depression or storm, the NHC will issue a special advisory and the system will be given a name from the WMO’s list of names.
Are “Invests” only used for tropical cyclones in the Atlantic?
No, “Invests” are not only used for tropical cyclones in the Atlantic. The “Invest” designation is used by tropical cyclone warning centers around the world, including the Eastern Pacific, Central Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
The “Invest” designation is used for any system that has the potential to develop into a tropical cyclone, regardless of the ocean basin in which it is located. This allows forecasters to track and monitor the system, regardless of its location, and to provide updates to the public on its potential development.