In Bill Bryson's "A Short History of Nearly Everything," the author highlights the immense power of tropical hurricanes, illustrating their potential to unleash staggering amounts of energy. In just a single day, a hurricane can produce energy equivalent to what a developed country, such as Britain or France, consumes over an entire year. This comparison emphasizes the natural forces at play in our world and the dramatic scale of energy generated by natural phenomena.

This perspective on hurricanes not only showcases the power of nature but also serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human existence and the environment. Understanding these forces helps underscore the importance of respecting and studying our planet's systems, as they can have profound impacts on life and civilization.