Scientists hypothesize that storm waves lead to mixing of ocean layers, cooling the sea surface temperature by up to 8 degrees Celsius. Think about how hurricanes are fueled. How might this change in temperature affect the intensity of the storm?

Hurricanes are formed over the sea where the sea surface temperature is 26°C or above. At this temperature, it acquires the fuel that is necessary for the formation of hurricanes. The storm initially takes up the heat energy from the water. As a result of which the air in the atmosphere attains the moisture and with all proper wind conditions, it eventually forms a hurricane.

This formation of hurricane storms leads to the reduction in the sea surface temperature and the intensity of the storm depends upon the temperature of the sea surface. The sea surface releasing all of its heat energy intensifies the storm and makes it more stronger and vulnerable. A high sea surface temperature may give rise to the formation of an extremely destructive storm. The energy of this hurricane recedes as it passes over a cold water body or land areas.