Each year from June through November, tropical cyclones are a common potential problem for those living in coastal communities along the southwest Louisiana and southeast Texas coasts. Developing from small tropical disturbances, tropical cyclone strength is determined by many factors: ocean temperature, upper and lower wind circulation, latitudinal position, etc. Ecological, geological, and economic effects of strong-to-devastating tropical cyclones on coastal areas are typically extreme. Since the 1860s, seven strong or greater tropical cyclones have struck the Louisiana-Texas coast. Their impact has made an indelible impression on the coastline as well as on the communities in the area