ELI5: What is the difference between a hurricane and a typhoon

A hurricane and a typhoon are the same thing, just with different names depending on where they happen.

Imagine a really, really big spinning top made of wind and rain. It's so big it can cover a whole state! When this spinning top forms over the Atlantic Ocean or the eastern Pacific Ocean (near North and Central America), we call it a hurricane. Think of hurricanes hitting Florida or Mexico.

But, if that same spinning top forms over the western Pacific Ocean (near Asia), we call it a typhoon. So, typhoons might hit places like Japan, the Philippines, or China. It's like calling your pet dog by a different name depending on whether you're inside or outside the house – it's still the same dog!

Here's a simple way to remember:

• Hurricanes: Happen near America.
• Typhoons: Happen near Asia.

• Strong winds that can knock down trees and houses.
• Heavy rain that can cause flooding.
• Big waves at the beach that can be very dangerous.