A recent study published in Communications Earth & Environment by researchers from Montclair State University and other international institutions reveals concerning trends regarding the impact of tropical cyclones on coastal ecosystems. The research, led by Montclair Associate Professor of Biology Colette Feehan, examines the cumulative effects of increasing tropical cyclone activity in the North Atlantic over the past five decades.
Feehan explains, “Our research shows that as tropical cyclones become stronger, the damage to coastal ecosystems can become more severe and widespread.” She highlights that habitats such as mangroves, coral reefs, and salt marshes are particularly vulnerable to impacts from various cyclone attributes like winds, waves, and surges.
Tropical cyclones are powerful rotating storm systems formed over warm ocean waters near the equator. Known as hurricanes in some regions and typhoons or simply cyclones in others, these storms draw energy from warm waters and are marked by strong winds and heavy rainfall. They can travel long distances across ocean basins, causing significant damage upon landfall before weakening or dissipating.
The study suggests that future intensifying tropical cyclones driven by climate change could pose increasing risks to essential ecosystems that offer natural protection, support biodiversity, and sustain coastal economies. Researchers analyzed data from 97 tropical cyclones affecting diverse ecosystems throughout the North Atlantic. They focused on immediate ecological consequences such as species mortality, habitat destruction, and shifts in community structure.
Findings indicate severe damage occurs most notably in mangrove forests due to strong winds leading to felled trees. Coral reefs suffer primarily from wave damage caused by cyclones which break and dislodge coral structures vital for marine biodiversity.
Looking forward, Feehan’s team—which includes experts from the University of Western Australia, University of Canterbury, and Rutgers University—advocates for targeted conservation strategies to protect vulnerable ecosystems. These efforts aim to mitigate the cascading effects of cyclone damage on marine biodiversity and coastal community livelihoods.
