Hurricane Florence resounds in the Atlantic: how do these powerful tropical storms form?

Hurricanes are known for their strong winds and potential for heavy rain – but do you understand how the weather phenoneme works?

Here's what you need to know about Hurricane Florence before it hits the United States.

Storms in the making

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) detailed online how hurricanes are taking shape.

"These violent storms form over the oceans, often in the form of a tropical wave – a low-pressure area that crosses the moisture-rich tropics, which can improve shower and thunderstorm activities," explains the agency.

Hot air is another important factor.

"As this weather system moves west through the tropics, warm ocean air rises into the storm, forming a low pressure zone underneath," NOAA adds. "It causes more air in the air. The air rises and cools, forming clouds and storms. In the clouds, the water condenses and forms droplets, releasing even more heat to fuel the storm.

However, not all storms like these are hurricanes: NOAA says they must have winds of at least 74 miles an hour.

HURRICANE FLORENCE

Something special about Hurricane Florence?

Florence heads to the southeastern United States – with an unusual trip.

"Florence is a unique storm in the path it has taken," said Fox News meteorologist Adam Klotz. "Historically, the storms that took the runway that Florence borrowed are heading towards the Atlantic Ocean before reaching the American coast."

However, with Florence, that's another story.

"A high-pressure system, known as Bermuda High, has been put in place, forcing Florence to take a path south and west of what we usually see," said Klotz.

THE HURRICANE FLORENCE STRENGTHENS IN ATLANTIC: TIPS TO PREPARE THE STORM

What should I know about it?

There are steps to take to prepare for a hurricane to approach, depending on the number of flight hours in your area. If you have pets, you can also prepare your furry companions by taking several simple steps.

For residents of the Carolinas and Virginia preparing for Florence, officials provided emergency phone numbers that may be helpful.