Tropical Cyclone Impact and Forest Resilience in the Southwestern Pacific

Tropical cyclones (TCs) can have profound effects on the dynamics of forest vegetation that need to be better understood. Here, we analysed changes in induced by TCs using normalized difference index (NDVI). We used an accurate historical database TC tracks and intensities, together with Willoughby cyclone model reconstruct 2D surface wind speed structure analyse how affect vegetation. segmented linear models identify significant breakpoints relationship between reconstructed maximum sustained (Wmax) observed NDVI. tested hypothesis rate change damage caused recovery time would increase according Wmax thresholds as defined widely Saffir–Simpson hurricane scale (SSHWS). showed most breakpoint was located at 50 m/s. This corresponds transition categories 2 3 SSHWS. Below this breakpoint, damages needed recover from these were negligable. found a second sharp for winds >75 suggested extremely intense tropical cyclones, which might more frequent future, cause extreme Nevertheless, high variation given Wmax. Further studies are integrate other factors exposure resistance well forests’ capacity disturbances.