CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A non-tropical area of low pressure called a nor’easter brought big impacts to the Carolinas this weekend especially along the coast. That nor’easter is now bringing those same impacts to the northeast.

But, not all storms are created the same. Let’s take a closer look at what separates a nor’easter from a tropical system.

Both are low-pressure systems, also called cyclones, that spin counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and form over water. And both can bring very impactful weather like strong winds, heavy rain, flooding and coastal erosion.

The differences come down to how they get their energy and where they form.

A hurricane thrives on warm ocean water. The heat and humidity feed the storm’s power. It’s compact, with the strongest winds wrapped tightly arou

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