Tropical Cyclone (IMAGE) University of Wisconsin-Madison Caption The intensity of tropical cyclones is shifting poleward, according to a new study. The latitude at which tropical storms like this achieve their greatest intensity has been shifting toward the poles and away from the tropics at an estimated rate of 33 to 39 miles per decade. The upshot may be that some areas, including densely populated coastal cities, could experience a greater risk of large storms and their associated floods and storm surges. Credit Photo courtesy Cooperative Institute for Meteorological Satellite Studies, University of Wiscosnsin-Madison Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.