 A tropical cyclone can become extratropical as it moves toward higher latitudes if its energy source changes from heat released by condensation to differences in temperature between air masses; although not as frequently, an extratropical cyclone can transform into a subtropical storm, and from there into a tropical cyclone.From space, extratropical storms have a characteristic "comma-shaped" cloud pattern.Extratropical cyclones can also be dangerous when their low-pressure centers cause powerful winds and high seas.