Which of the following best describes a tropical storm?

A tropical storm is best described as a cyclone over tropical oceans with escalating intensity because it represents a specific stage in the development of storm systems that form in warm tropical waters. Once a tropical disturbance reaches sustained wind speeds between 39 and 73 miles per hour, it is classified as a tropical storm. This classification indicates that the storm has not yet intensified into a hurricane, which begins at 74 miles per hour.

Tropical storms are notable for their potential to escalate into more severe weather systems, including hurricanes, as they draw energy from warmer ocean waters and atmospheric conditions. This characteristic highlights the importance of monitoring tropical storms, as they can rapidly strengthen and lead to significant weather events that affect both coastal and inland areas.

The incorrect options provide limited or misleading descriptions. For instance, while tropical storms can bring heavy rainfall, they are not defined solely by mild winds and heavy rainfall. Additionally, tropical storms do not only affect coastal regions; they can move inland and impact a broader area. The reference to a storm system that is never classified as a hurricane is also misleading, as a tropical storm is a preliminary stage that can evolve into a hurricane if conditions permit.