Bands of thunderstorms form, and the storm's cloud tops rise higher into the atmosphere. In these early stages, the system appears on the satellite image as a relatively unorganized cluster of thunderstorms. At this time, the cloud-free hurricane eye typically forms because rapidly sinking air at the center dries and warms the area. During their life span, hurricanes can last for more than two weeks over the ocean and can travel up the entire Atlantic Coast. The Storm's End Just as many factors contribute to the birth of a hurricane, there are many reasons why a hurricane begins to decay.
Wind shear can tear the hurricane apart.
Moving over cooler water or drier areas can lead to weakening as well. Landfall typically shuts off the hurricane's main moisture source, and the surface circulation can be reduced by friction when it passes over land. Generally, a weakening hurricane or tropical cyclone can reintensify if it moves into a more favorable region or interacts with mid-latitude frontal systems.