The "dirty side" of a hurricane refers to the side of the storm where the winds are stronger and more destructive. In the Northern Hemisphere, this is typically the right side of the hurricane's forward motion. On this side, the hurricane's rotational winds combine with its forward movement, resulting in wind speeds that can be up to 50% stronger than on the opposite "clean side" of the storm

. This stronger wind on the dirty side leads to more severe conditions, including higher storm surge-the ocean water pushed onshore by the hurricane- which can cause greater flooding and damage along coastlines. The wind field on the dirty side also tends to cover a larger area, meaning that conditions deteriorate sooner and last longer compared to the clean side

. Because of these factors, the dirty side is considered more dangerous, with increased risks of wind damage, flooding, and severe weather. People in the path of the dirty side should prepare for more intense impacts than those on the clean side

. In summary, the dirty side of a hurricane is the right side relative to the storm's motion in the Northern Hemisphere, characterized by stronger winds, higher storm surge, and more severe weather conditions compared to the left or clean side