Rapid intensification of a tropical cyclone is commonly characterized as an increase in maximum sustained winds of at least 50 knots (about 58 mph) within a 24-hour period.
October 26, 2025
high
temporal
Definition used in meteorological analysis of hurricane strength changes.
Determining a tornado's strength typically takes days or weeks because meteorologists assess damage to buildings and trees to estimate wind intensity.
October 06, 2025
high
temporal
Standard post-event meteorological damage-survey procedure used to rate tornadoes.