What is a cyclone and how is it different from a hurricane or tornado?
An aerial view of a neighborhood affected by Cyclone Idai in Beira, Mozambique (Photo by Andrew Renn..
Hundreds of people have been killed after Cyclone Idai struck the coastline of Mozambique last week.
Its destruction also affected people in Milawai and Zimbabwe, leaving many without their homes.
Around 110,000 people are now in camps as rescue efforts are being carried out with aid being provided by various countries.
Up to 20 tonnes of UK aid will be delivered to support those who have been left with nothing following the cyclone.
The UKs Ministry of Defence confirmed that this will include shelter kits and water purifiers to assist aid workers in helping those affected.
What is a cyclone?
A cyclone is described as a storm that rapidly rotates and produces strong winds and heavy rain.
It is known to have a low-pressure centre that can cause significant damage.
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They have an inward spiral and they usually form when there is a low pressure area between warm and cool air mass.
Its energy can grow depending on the temperature contrast between the two masses of air, which means that it can get stronger as warm air gets higher and cold air gets lower.
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They can last for a few days and usually slow down once most of the energy from the two masses of temperature is used up.
The only big difference that separates a cyclone from a hurricane is the location that it originates from.
Cyclones are mostly used when they occur from the South Pacific or Indian Ocean.
Tornadoes are slightly different as they often start on land and form from small storm clouds, they are also typically smaller and last for a much shorter period of time.
To donate to Christian Aids Cyclone Idai appeal, visit _