This can only be described as an El Nino charged tropical situation. The warmer than normal waters in the Pacific Ocean have helped create an environment for multiple hurricanes. While spread out across the eastern and central Pacific, three storms seen in this one maps image surrounding Hawaii are rated major hurricanes at Category 4 with winds ranging from 130 to 140 mph. Meanwhile in the Atlantic basin, Erika defied forecasts staying south, weaker, and dissipating after crossing the island of Hispanol. The rainfall is still spreading northward towards florida.
Hurricanes:
Jimena: Winds 130 mph
Ignacio: Winds 140 mph. This is closest to Hawaii but forecasted to stay to the east and then pass north of the islands. Tropical Storm Watch however was issued. Most likely impact with large waves.
Kilo: Winds 140 mph
Erika- No Longer Tropical
One common ground that Erika and prior storm Danny had was that they stayed on the south (or left) side of forecast tracks while not reaching potential. Danny did strengthen into a hurricane briefly, but then fell apart due to wind sheer aloft. Those upper level winds are increased due to the El Nino pattern in the Pacific. This may sound ironic compared to how it influences Pacific storms, but this is an El Nino staple. Stronger, more numerous storms in the Pacific, less storms in the Atlantic.
Compare the Forecast Tracks To Actual Path
Rainfall Outlook: Flooding Still Expected For Florida This Week
Tropical Posts: Hurricane Info
- 2015 Atlantic Storm Names and Forecast
- History of naming Tropical Storms and Hurricanes
- Tropical Storm Formation: Origin Maps For Each 10 Days Of Season, Video
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