<P> Landfall is distinct from a direct hit . A direct hit is where the core of high winds (or eyewall) comes onshore but the center of the storm may stay offshore . The effects of this are quite similar to a landfall, as this term is used when the radius of maximum wind within a tropical cyclone moves ashore . These effects are high surf, heavy rains that may cause flooding, water buildup along the coast with minor storm surge, coastal beach erosion, high winds, and possibly severe thunderstorms with tornadoes around the periphery . </P> <P> When a tornadic waterspout makes landfall it is reclassified as a tornado, which can subsequently cause damage to areas inland of the coast . When a fair weather waterspout makes landfall it usually dissipates quickly due to friction and a reduction in the amount of warm air supplied to the funnel . </P>

What does it mean when a hurricane makes landfall