Which weather phenomenon is characterized by intense storms formed over warm seas, also known as hurricanes or typhoons?

The weather phenomenon characterized by intense storms formed over warm seas is known as a tropical storm. These storms occur primarily in tropical and subtropical regions where warm ocean waters provide the necessary energy and moisture. When water temperatures rise above approximately 26.5 degrees Celsius (about 80 degrees Fahrenheit), the heat and moisture evaporate into the atmosphere, creating a low-pressure system that can develop into a tropical storm.

Tropical storms can escalate into more severe systems, such as hurricanes or typhoons, based on where they form; in the Atlantic and Northeast Pacific, they are termed hurricanes, while in the Northwest Pacific, they are referred to as typhoons. They are characterized by strong winds, heavy rainfall, and can lead to significant coastal damage due to storm surges and flooding.

In contrast, phenomena like floods can occur due to excessive rainfall but do not necessarily involve the high winds associated with tropical storms. Windstorms encompass a broader range of storms with strong winds and are not limited to those forming over warm seas. Thunderstorms involve localized storms characterized mostly by thunder and lightning but do not typically reach the intensity or scale of tropical storms.