Typhoon Neoguri (2014) facts for kids

Typhoon Negouri near Okinawa, Japan

Typhoon Neoguri (also called Typhoon Florita) was a very strong tropical cyclone that formed in the western Pacific Ocean. A tropical cyclone is a huge spinning storm with strong winds and heavy rain. This storm started in early July 2014. The Japan Meteorological Agency, which tracks weather in Japan, named it Neoguri.

On July 4, 2014, Neoguri grew stronger and was officially called a typhoon. Typhoons are the strongest type of tropical cyclone. The storm kept getting more powerful after that. Because of how strong it was, some areas around Japan were put on high alert. This meant people were warned to get ready for the storm and stay safe.

What is a Typhoon?

A typhoon is a powerful type of storm that forms over warm ocean waters. It is like a giant spinning top of clouds and wind. These storms are called "typhoons" in the western Pacific Ocean. In other parts of the world, they might be called hurricanes or cyclones.

How Typhoons Form

Typhoons need warm ocean water, usually above 26.5 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit), to form. They also need moist air and light winds high up in the atmosphere. When these conditions are right, warm, moist air rises, creating an area of low pressure. More air rushes in to fill this space, and the Earth's spin makes the air start to swirl. As more air rises and swirls, the storm gets bigger and stronger, forming an "eye" in the center where the weather is calm.

Typhoon Neoguri's Journey

Typhoon Neoguri started as a tropical depression, which is a weaker type of storm. It then quickly grew into a tropical storm and then a typhoon. It moved across the Pacific Ocean, heading towards Japan.

Impact on Japan

When Typhoon Neoguri got close to Japan, especially the island of Okinawa, it brought very strong winds and heavy rainfall. People were told to prepare for power outages and possible flooding. Some flights were canceled, and schools were closed to keep everyone safe. The storm caused some trees to be uprooted and minor damage in certain areas. Luckily, people were well-prepared, which helped reduce the harm.

Images for kids

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  Typhoon Neoguri affecting Okinawa on July 8

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  The eye of Typhoon Neoguri as seen from the International Space Station on July 7.

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  Uprooted trees in Okinawa