Question: what are the basic requirements for the formation of a cyclone?
Answer: Water temperatures of at least 26.5 °C (80°F) down to a depth of at least 50 m (150 feet). ... 
Rapid cooling with height. ... 
High humidity, especially in the lower-to-mid troposphere. ... 
Low wind shear. ... 
Distance from the equator. ... 
A pre-existing system of disturbed weather.