- 1998 Pacific hurricane season
Infobox hurricane season
Basin=EPac
Year=1998
Track=1998 Pacific hurricane season map.png
First storm formed=June 11, 1998
Last storm dissipated=October 20, 1998
Strongest storm name=Howard
Strongest storm winds=130
Strongest storm pressure=932
Average wind speed=
Total depressions=16
Total storms=13
Total hurricanes=9
Total intense=6
Fatalities=19 direct, 31 indirect
Da
Inflated=0
five seasons=1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000The 1998 Pacific hurricane season was a moderately activePacific hurricane season with seventropical cyclone s directly affecting land. The season officially started on May 15 in the eastern Pacific, and on June 1 in the central Pacific, and ended on November 30; these dates conventionally delimit the period during which most tropical cyclones form in the northeasternPacific Ocean . The first tropical cyclone developed on June 11, which was about ten days later than the normal start of the season. The final storm of the year, Hurricane Madeline, dissipated on October 20. Storm activity in the Central Pacific Ocean was low, with just one tropical depression forming in the basin. Two tropical cyclones from the Eastern Pacific, Darby and Estelle, also entered the central Pacific, with the former entering as a hurricane.The season produced 13 named storms, which was slightly below the average of 16 named storms per season. However, the total of nine hurricanes during the season was equal to the average, and the total of six major hurricanes surpassed the average.cite web|author=National Hurricane Center|year=2007|title=Tropical Cyclone Climatology|accessdate=2007-02-25|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/pastprofile.shtml]
The most notable tropical cyclone was Hurricane Isis, which killed fourteen people when it made landfall on southern Baja California and coastal
Sinaloa inMexico . Isis caused moderate damage in the nation, destroying more than 700 homes and damaging dozens of cars.cite news|author=Associated Press|date=1998-09-05|title=At least 10 dead from Hurricane Isis|accessdate=2007-03-31] It later produced light rainfall and caused dozens of traffic accidents in the southwesternUnited States . In addition to Isis, Tropical Storm Javier made landfall onMexico ; the nation experienced the effects of other offshore storms, with six tropical cyclones having some impact on the country. One tropical cyclone, Hurricane Lester, affectedCentral America , and caused two deaths inGuatemala . Three tropical cyclones produced light to moderate rainfall across the southwesternUnited States , and one hurricane produced rough surf along the coast ofCalifornia . Hurricane Madeline contributed to a costly and deadly flood in southernTexas .torms
Tropical Storm Agatha
Infobox Hurricane Small
Basin=EPac
Track=Agatha 1998 track.png
Formed=June 11
Dissipated=June 16
1-min winds=55
Pressure=993A poorly definedtropical wave crossedCentral America into the easternPacific Ocean on June 8. As it tracked westward under the influence of a ridge to its north, a broad circulation developed. However, convection remained sporadic and well-removed from smaller surface centers embedded in the system. Gradually, a dominant center of circulation became better defined, with increasingly organized convection and developing banding features.cite web|author=Lixion A. Avila|year=1998|title=Tropical Storm Agatha Preliminary Report|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-21|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/1998agatha.html] By early on June 11, the center became sufficiently associated with the convection for theNational Hurricane Center (NHC) to classify the system as Tropical Depression One-E. This occurred while the area of unsettled weather was about 460 miles (765 km) south-southwest ofAcapulco ,Mexico .cite web|author=Guiney & Pasch|year=1998|title=Tropical Depression One-E Discussion One|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-21|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/dis/NEP0198.001]The center of the depression was not initially well defined, with restricted outflow in the eastern half of the circulation. As such, the depression failed to attain any significant organization in the days subsequent to its formation. Later, an approaching tropical wave merged with the depression, resulting in a trend of intensification and increased organization. By June 13, the NHC upgraded the depression to
tropical storm status, and gave it the name "Agatha". Agatha was about 650 miles (1050 km) south-southeast ofCabo San Lucas when it became a tropical storm. As Agatha became a tropical storm, forecasters predicted that it would not strengthen further, due to its forecast track passing over cooler waters.cite web|author=Jarvinen|year=1998|title=Tropical Storm Agatha Discussion Eight|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-21|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/dis/NEP0198.008] However, Agatha quickly strengthened, developing a curved band ofconvection wrapping around its center,cite web|author=Avila|year=1998|title=Tropical Storm Agatha Discussion Eleven|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-21|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/dis/NEP0198.011] and early on June 11 it attained a peak intensity of 65 mph (100 km/h) while about 615 miles (985 km) southwest of the southern tip of Baja California. Agatha maintained peak winds for about 12 hours before moving over colder waters and gradually weakening. On June 15, it degenerated back into a tropical depression, and a day later, it dissipated over the open waters of the Pacific Ocean. The storm never affected land.Tropical Depression Two-E
Infobox Hurricane Small
Basin=EPac
Formed=June 19
Dissipated=June 22
1-min winds=30
Pressure=1003A few days later, another westward-moving tropical disturbance paralleled the southern coast ofCentral America andMexico . Convection in the area organized steadily, and late on June 19, the system developed into Tropical Depression Two-E about 260 miles (420 km) south-southwest of Manzanillo,Mexico . On becoming a tropical depression, the system maintained a large, elongated, low-level circulation with some banding features and restricted outflow due towind shear . TheNational Hurricane Center first predicted that the depression would intensify, reaching winds of 50 mph (80 km/h), though two computer models projected it to quickly dissipate. Under the influence of a ridge over Mexico, the depression moved to the west-northwest,cite web|author=Guiney & Avila|year=1998|title=Tropical Depression Two-E Discussion One|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-21|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/dis/NEP0298.001] and, under the influence of increasing wind shear, the depression failed to organize significantly. By June 20, the circulation center was partially exposed, and was located to the northeast of the primary convection – traits that signal a weak storm. Two-E approached tropical storm status,cite web|author=Avila|year=1998|title=Tropical Depression Two-E Discussion Five|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-21|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/dis/NEP0298.005] though deep convection waned after the system moved over cooler waters. On June 21, the National Hurricane Center issued the last advisory on the depression, stating that the depression maintained a very well-defined, low-level circulation, but had no convection associated with the system. The depression never affected land.cite web|author=Mayfield|year=1998|title=Tropical Depression Two-E Discussion Ten|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-21|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/dis/NEP0298.010]Hurricane Blas
Infobox Hurricane Small
Basin=EPac
Track=Blas 1998 track.png
Formed=June 22
Dissipated=June 30
1-min winds=120
Pressure=943On June 8, atropical wave emerged off the coast ofAfrica . The wave remained weak and nondescript as it crossed theAtlantic Ocean and entered the easternPacific Ocean on June 19. An area of convection developed and organized along the wave's axis, and the National Hurricane Center began to employ Dvorak classifications on June 20. Convective banding features increased as the broad circulation became better defined, and on June 22, the disturbance developed into Tropical Depression Three-E about 575 miles (925 km) south of theGulf of Tehuantepec . Well-defined steering currents resulted in a general west-northwestward movement. Deep convection concentrated near the center, and about 12 hours after becoming a tropical depression, the system strengthened into Tropical Storm Blas about 400 miles (640 km) south ofPuerto Angel, Oaxaca .cite web|author=Max Mayfield|year=1998|title=Hurricane Blas Preliminary Report|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-17|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/1998blas.html]Tropical Storm Blas continued to organize as it moved parallel to the Mexican coast. Banding features increased, and on June 23 the storm attained hurricane status about 345 miles (555 km) southwest of
Acapulco . The next day, an eye developed and became apparent on satellite imagery, while upper-level outflow became better defined. Blas quickly strengthened and reached its peak intensity on June 25, with maximum sustained winds of 140 mph (225 km/h), while about 575 miles (925 km) south-southeast of the southern tip of Baja California. Temperatures warmed in the convection around the eye, though the eye remained visible for several days as Blas turned west under the influence of a ridge to its north. On June 28, it degenerated into a tropical storm after entering an area of cooler water. Blas weakened to a tropical depression on June 30, and a day later was considered to have dissipated due to a lack of convection near the center. A remnant low-level cloud swirl persisted for several days, passing well to the south ofHawaii on July 5 before dissipating. TheAssociated Press attributed 4 deaths from amudslide inMichoacán to Blas. However, as the primary convection remained offshore, the National Hurricane Center did not consider the deaths related to the hurricane. The threat of Blas prompted officials inAcapulco to close the port to all navigation.cite news|author=Atlanta Journal|date=1998-06-23|title=Storm likely to become hurricane|accessdate=2007-02-18]Tropical Storm Celia
Infobox Hurricane Small
Basin=EPac
Track=Celia 1998 track.png
Formed=July 17
Dissipated=July 21
1-min winds=50
Pressure=997On July 1, anothertropical wave emerged off the coast ofAfrica . It moved westward due to strongwind shear without further organization, and crossedCentral America into the easternPacific Ocean on July 11. An area of organizingconvection developed along the wave axis, and Dvorak classifications began on July 13 , while the tropical wave was south of theGulf of Tehuantepec . The cloud pattern soon became disorganized, and the area of disturbed weather continued west-northwestward. On July 16, convection increased and organized into banding features; early on July 17, the system developed into Tropical Depression Four-E about 150 miles (240 km) south of Manzanillo, Mexico. Soon after becoming a tropical depression, the storm rapidly organized and intensified into Tropical Storm Celia six hours after becoming a tropical depression. The tropical storm initially moved northwestward, and briefly threatened southern Baja California. As a result, the government ofMexico issued a tropical storm warning on July 18 for La Paz southward. Shortly thereafter, a mid- to upper-levelanticyclone turned Celia to the west-northwest and forced it to pass about 150 miles (240 km) south-southwest ofCabo San Lucas . On July 19, Celia attained maximum sustained winds of 60 mph (95 km/h) before moving over cooler waters and diminishing in convection. The storm degenerated into a tropical depression on July 20, and Celia dissipated early on July 21, well away from the Mexican coastline.cite web|author=Richard Pasch|year=1999|title=Tropical Storm Celia Preliminary Report|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-26|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/1998celia.html]The precursor tropical disturbance produced locally heavy rainfall along the south coast of
Mexico . Authorities in Mexico closed the port atAcapulco to small fishing and recreational boats, and advised larger craft to use caution.cite news|author=Associated Press|date=1998-07-17|title=Tropical Storm Celia strengthening off Mexico|accessdate=2007-02-26] Damage from the storm, if any, is unknown.Hurricane Darby
Infobox Hurricane Small
Basin=EPac
Track=Darby 1998 track.png
Formed=July 23
Dissipated=August 1
1-min winds=100
Pressure=958Atropical wave moved off the coast ofAfrica on July 4. It tracked westward across theAtlantic Ocean with little increase inconvection , and crossedCentral America into thePacific Ocean on July 16. Three days later, convection began to increase along the wave axis while the wave was well to the south ofAcapulco ,Mexico . On July 21, Dvorak classifications began as the cloud pattern displayed curvature on satellite images. Convective banding features gradually developed, and it is estimated that the system organized into Tropical Depression Five-E early on July 23 about 720 miles (1160 km) south of the southern tip of theBaja California peninsula . Under the influence of a mid- to upper-level ridge to its north, the depression tracked west-northwestward. Convection became more concentrated as outflow organized further, and 18 hours after the depression first developed, it intensified into Tropical Storm Darby.cite web|author=Rappaport|year=1999|title=Hurricane Darby Preliminary Report|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-25|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/1998darby.html]Located in an area conducive to further development, Darby attained hurricane status on July 24, subsequent to the development of a 17 mile (27 km)-wide eye. The eye became more distinct while surrounded by an area of deep convection, and on July 25 the hurricane reached peak winds of 115 mph (185 km/h) about 850 miles (1370 km) southwest of
Cabo San Lucas .cite web|author=Avila|year=1998|title=Hurricane Darby Discussion Eight|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-25|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/dis/NEP0598.008] The eye soon disappeared on satellite imagery, believed to be from an eyewall replacement cycle, and Darby's winds weakened to about 105 mph (170 km/h). A 25 mile (40 km) eye next developed, and on July 26, the hurricane re-intensified to reach peak winds of 115 mph (185 km/h). For a 30-hour period, Darby attained the characteristics of anannular hurricane , retaining a well-defined structure with few banding features for an extended period. The hurricane began to weaken while entering an area of cooler water and increasedwind shear , and after crossing into the jurisdiction of theCentral Pacific Hurricane Center , Darby weakened to a tropical storm on July 29. The storm degenerated into a tropical depression on July 31, and early on August 1, Darby dissipated a moderate distance north of theHawaiian Islands . It never affected land.Hurricane Estelle
Infobox Hurricane Small
Basin=EPac
Track=Estelle 1998 track.png
Formed=July 29
Dissipated=August 8
1-min winds=116
Pressure=948On July 18, atropical wave exited the western coast ofAfrica , and moved westward across theAtlantic Ocean with sporadic convection but no development. The wave moved across theCaribbean Sea and the southernGulf of Mexico before crossingCentral America into the easternPacific Ocean on July 28. Early on July 29, Dvorak classifications began on the system, and subsequent to the formation of banding features and a surface circulation, the system developed into Tropical Depression Six-E about 170 miles (275 km) southeast of Manzanillo, Mexico. The depression continued to organize, with increasingconvection and distinct upper-level outflow, and early on July 30 the depression intensified into Tropical Storm Estelle.cite web|author=Guiney|year=1999|title=Hurricane Estelle Preliminary Report|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-26|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/1998estelle.html]Tropical Storm Estelle gradually intensified as it tracked west-northwestward, a motion caused by a large
anticyclone to its north. On July 31, the storm attained hurricane status about 550 miles (885 km) south-southeast of the southern tip of Baja California. Its intensification continued as a well-defined eye about 30 miles (48 km) in diameter became visible on satellite imagery, and on August 2 Estelle reached its peak intensity of 135 mph (215 km/h). The hurricane soon began to weaken as deep convection diminished and the eye disappeared on satellite imagery. Two days after peaking in intensity, Estelle weakened to tropical storm status. Late on August 4, the convection associated with the storm dissipated, and the next day the storm weakened to tropical depression status. Convection briefly re-developed on August 6, though increasedwind shear and cooler water weakened the depression further. Two days later, Estelle dissipated about 400 miles (645 km) east-northeast of theHawaiian Islands . High surf from Estelle impacted southernCalifornia , resulting in a number of lifeguard rescues.cite news|author=KCAL-TV|date=1998-08-04|title=Hurricane Estelle is hitting hard|accessdate=2007-02-26] The storm disrupted thetrade wind s aroundHawaii , resulting in light winds and rain showers onKauai andOahu .cite web|author=Central Pacific Hurricane Center|year=1999|title=1998 Central Pacific Tropical Cyclone Season|accessdate=2007-02-18|url=http://www.prh.noaa.gov/cphc/summaries/1998.php]Tropical Storm Frank
Infobox Hurricane Small
Basin=EPac
Track=Frank 1998 track.png
Formed=August 6
Dissipated=August 10
1-min winds=40
Pressure=1001On July 19, atropical wave moved off the coast ofAfrica . A mid-level circulation developed to the south ofCape Verde on July 22, though the wave became less distinct as it continued westward. The wave axis crossedCentral America into the easternPacific Ocean on July 31. Convection steadily increased, though it was not until August 4 that the convection began to organize. Dvorak classifications began on August 4, and subsequent to the formation of a low-level circulation the system developed into Tropical Depression Seven-E on August 6 about 550 miles (885 km) south of the southern tip of theBaja California Peninsula . The depression tracked generally northward, under the influence of a ridge overMexico and a mid-level trough to its west.cite web|author=Lixion A. Avila|year=1998|title=Tropical Storm Frank Tropical Cyclone Report|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-21|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/1998frank.html] The center of the depression was initially elongated, with northerlywind shear impacting the structure of the cyclone.cite web|author=Pasch|year=1998|title=Tropical Depression Seven-E Discussion One|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-21|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/dis/NEP0798.001] This at first prevented further strengthening, though convection increased and organized into banding features as it moved through an area of warm water.cite web|author=Jarvinen|year=1998|title=Tropical Storm Frank Discussion Six|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-21|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/dis/NEP0798.006] On August 8, the depression intensified into Tropical Storm Frank, and it soon turned to the north-northwest, brushing the western coastline of Baja California. On August 9, Frank reached peak winds of 45 mph (75 km/h) about 105 miles (170 km) west-northwest ofCiudad Constitución . It turned to the northwest, with a portion of the circulation of the land, and steadily weakened after moving over cooler water. On August 10, Frank dissipated a short distance off Baja California.On August 8, the government of Mexico issued a tropical storm warning for portions of the southwestern Baja California Peninsula. Officials ordered the evacuation of some residents near
Cabo San Lucas , whose port was closed, due to the threat of mudslides.cite news|author=Associated Press|date=1998-08-09|title=Tropical depression parallels Mexico's Baja California peninsula|accessdate=2007-02-21] Gusty winds and moderate rainfall were reported in a localized area of Baja California Sur, with rainfall peaking at 9.61 inches (244 mm) at Santa Anita, nearLos Cabos . [cite web|author=Hydrometeorological Prediction Center|year=2007|title=Tropical Storm Frank Rainfall Data|accessdate=2007-02-12|url=http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/tropical/rain/frank1998.html] Moisture from Frank extended into the southwesternUnited States , producing more than 2 inches (50 mm) of rain in southernCalifornia andArizona .cite web|author=United States Department of Agriculture|accessdate=2007-02-21|url=http://usda.mannlib.cornell.edu/usda/nass/WWNatSumm//1990s/1998/WWNatSumm-08-18-1998.txt|title=National Weather Summary|year=1998] One news agency attributed three deaths to the storm,cite news|author=CBS Network Programming|date=1998-08-10|title=Tropical Storm Frank|accessdate=2007-02-21] though elsewhere there were no reports of damage.Hurricane Georgette
Infobox Hurricane Small
Basin=EPac
Track=Georgette 1998 track.png
Formed=August 11
Dissipated=August 17
1-min winds=100
Pressure=960Atropical wave was first observed in the easternPacific Ocean on August 4 in association with theIntertropical Convergence Zone . It tracked westward, and by August 9 a low-level circulation formed well to the south ofMexico . Banding features increased as the system detached from the Intertropical Convergence Zone, and on August 11, the system developed into Tropical Depression Eight-E about 730 miles (1170 km) southwest ofAcapulco .cite web|author=Miles B. Lawrence|year=1998|title=Hurricane Georgette Preliminary Report|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-21|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/1998georgette.html] On becoming a tropical cyclone, the depression maintained an area of concentrated deep convection near the center. TheNational Hurricane Center initially predicted that the depression would slowly intensify and reach winds of 70 mph (115 km/h) within 72 hours. For much of the rest of the storm's duration, the National Hurricane Center underestimated the intensity of the cyclone.cite web|author=Rappaport|year=1998|title=Tropical Depression Eight-E Tropical Discussion One|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-21|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/dis/NEP0898.001]The depression tracked steadily northwestward, caused by its location along the western periphery of a
subtropical ridge . It would retain that direction for most of its remaining duration. Late on August 11, it intensified into Tropical Storm Georgette, and two days later it attained hurricane status after developing a 40 mile (65 km) eye about 615 miles (990 km) south-southwest ofCabo San Lucas . The eye became increasingly distinct while banding features became very well organized.cite web|author=Avila|year=1998|title=Hurricane Georgette Discussion Twelve|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-21|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/dis/NEP0898.012] Georgette attained peak winds of 115 mph (185 km/h) while centered 690 miles (1110 km) west-southwest of the southern tip of Baja California. The hurricane soon moved over cooler water, and began to weaken as convection warmed and decreased. On August 16, it degenerated into a tropical storm, and Georgette dissipated on August 17 without ever affecting land.Tropical Depression One-C
Infobox Hurricane Small
Basin=EPac
Formed=August 16
Dissipated=August 18
1-min winds=30
Pressure=1010An area of convection developed in association with a northward bulge of the near-equatorialconvergence zone . It tracked west-northwestward under the influence of a ridge to its north, and organized into Tropical Depression One-C on August 19, about 1000 miles (1600 km) southeast of theHawaiian Islands . The depression failed to organize significantly as it turned westward. Highwind shear from an upper-level trough continually weakened the system, and on August 19, theCentral Pacific Hurricane Center issued the final advisory on the tropical depression about 365 miles (585 km) south of Hilo on the island of Hawaii. It never affected land.Hurricane Howard
Infobox Hurricane Small
Basin=EPac
Track=Howard 1998 track.png
Formed=August 20
Dissipated=August 30
1-min winds=130
Pressure=932Atropical wave moved off the coast ofAfrica on August 7. As it moved across theAtlantic Ocean , it failed to organize. On reaching the easternPacific Ocean on August 17, however, an area ofconvection developed along the wave axis. Dvorak classifications began the next day, and a broad center of circulation gradually formed. Convection was intermittent at first, though it gradually organized and persisted near the center, and on August 20, the disturbance developed into Tropical Depression Nine-E about convert|345|mi|km south ofPuerto Angel, Mexico . It tracked generally west-northwestward, developing more pronounced banding features, and on August 21, the depression intensified into Tropical Storm Howard. The center of Howard became embedded within the deep convection, and the storm quickly strengthened to attain hurricane status late on the 21st. An eye developed as outflow organized further, and Howard began to rapidly intensify to reach peak winds of 150 mph (240 km/h) about 600 miles (965 km) south-southeast of the southern tip of Baja California. At the time of its peak intensity, the eye was small and located within a very cold central dense overcast.cite web|author=Max Mayfield|year=1998|title=Hurricane Howard Preliminary Report|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-14|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/1998howard.html]Shortly after peaking in intensity, the eye of Hurricane Howard gradually became larger, resulting in a slight weakening trend. After weakening to winds of 125 mph (200 km/h), the eye reached a diameter of about 30 miles (50 km), and the structure of the hurricane transitioned into that of an
annular hurricane , similar to that of Darby earlier in the season.cite web|author=John A. Knaff, James P. Kossin, and Mark DeMaria|year=2002|title=Annular Hurricanes|publisher=NOAA|accessdate=2007-02-12|url=http://www.ssec.wisc.edu/~kossin/articles/annularhurr.pdf] Howard strengthened again into a Category 4 hurricane on August 25 before weakening slightly the following day. The hurricane retained annular characteristics for about 48 hours before moving over cooler water. On August 28, it weakened to a tropical storm, and early on August 30, Howard was considered to have dissipated. A small, low-level swirl of clouds devoid of convection persisted for a few days before dissipating. Howard never affected land.Hurricane Isis
Infobox Hurricane Small
Basin=EPac
Track=Isis 1998 track.png
Formed=September 1
Dissipated=September 3
1-min winds=65
Pressure=988Isis developed on September 1 out of the interaction between atropical wave and a large, low-level circulation to the southwest ofMexico . It moved northward, striking the extreme southeastern portion of theBaja California Peninsula before attaining hurricane status in theGulf of California . Isis made landfall atTopolobampo in the state ofSinaloa on September 3 and quickly lost its low-level circulation.cite web|author=Richard J. Pasch|year=1999|title=Hurricane Isis Preliminary Report|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-11|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/1998isis.html] The remnants persisted for several days before dissipating in theU.S. state ofIdaho .cite web|author=David Roth|year=2003|title=Rainfall Summary for Hurricane Isis|publisher=Hydrometeorological Prediction Center|accessdate=2007-02-11|url=http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/tropical/rain/isis1998.html]In Mexico, Isis destroyed more than 700 houses and killed 14 people, primarily due to heavy rainfall of more than 20 inches (500 mm) in southern Baja California Sur. The rainfall caused widespread damage to roads and railways, stranding thousands of people.cite web|author=President Ernesto Zedillo|year=1998|title=Versión estenográfica de las palabras del presidente Ernesto Zedillo, en la Reunión de Trabajo sobre la Reconstrucción de la Zona Afectada por el Huracán "Isis" en la sala del aeropuerto internacional de Los Mochis, de este municipio|language=Spanish|publisher=Government of Mexico|accessdate=2007-02-08|url=http://zedillo.presidencia.gob.mx/pages/disc/oct98/05oct98.html] Moisture from the remnants of Isis extended into the southwestern
United States , resulting in light rainfall, dozens of traffic accidents, and power outages for thousands of residents in San Diego County.cite news|author=Wade Booth|date=1998-09-03|title=Isis Brings Trouble to San Diego County|publisher=City News Service|accessdate=2007-02-09]Tropical Storm Javier
Infobox Hurricane Small
Basin=EPac
Track=Javier 1998 track.png
Formed=September 6
Dissipated=September 14
1-min winds=50
Pressure=995Javier is believed to have originated from atropical wave that moved off the coast ofAfrica on August 22. A convective disturbance along the northern portion of the wave developed into Atlantic Hurricane Danielle on August 24, while the southern portion of the wave axis continued westward. The wave remained inactive and difficult to track as it crossed the Atlantic. On September 3, an area of convection began to develop nearAcapulco , at the same time and location where the wave would have been based on extrapolation. The disturbance became better defined on September 5 as it tracked west-northwestward, and on September 6 the convection became sufficiently organized and persistent for theNational Hurricane Center to classify it as Tropical Depression Eleven-E, while it was located about 200 miles (330 km) southwest of Manzanillo, Mexico.cite web|author=Edward N. Rappaport|year=1999|title=Tropical Storm Javier Preliminary Report|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-13|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/1998javier.html]Easterly
wind shear initially dislocated the circulation center to the eastern edge of the convection. Thesubtropical ridge to its north resulted in a general west-northwest motion,cite web|author=Pasch|year=1998|title=Tropical Depression Eleven Discussion One|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-13|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/dis/NEP1198.001] and the depression slowly intensified into Tropical Storm Javier late on September 7. Banding features in the system did not organize significantly, and on September 8, Javier attained a peak intensity of 60 mph (95 km/h), which coincided with a sharp increase in convection over the center. Steering currents soon weakened, and the storm turned to the east while convection quickly decreased. By September 9, the center was exposed from the diminishing deep convection, and that night it degenerated into a tropical depression. On September 11, theNational Hurricane Center issued its final advisory on Javier, though later analysis indicates that it remained a tropical cyclone as it turned southeastward. At times, it became difficult to distinguish Javier from the broader area of disturbed weather that persisted over the tropical eastern Pacific, though a brief increase in convection and a ship report of winds exceeding 40 mph (65 km/h) indicate that Javier strengthened again into a tropical storm late on September 12. It turned to the northeast, and reached winds of 50 mph (80 km/h) before weakening due to waning convection. Javier made landfall about 35 miles (55 km) east-southeast ofCabo Corrientes early on September 14, and dissipated within 12 hours of moving ashore. The National Hurricane Center advised small craft along coastal areas of Mexico to monitor the progress of the storm. Javier produced moderate rainfall along coastal regions of Mexico, including a 24-hour peak of 7.36 inches (187 mm) inColima , 6.69 inches (170 mm) inMichoacán , and 3.34 inches (85 mm) inJalisco . Puerto Vallarta reported the highest total rainfall, at 17.33 inches (440 mm). [Hydrometeorological Prediction Center (2007). [http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/tropical/rain/javier1998.html Tropical Storm Javier.] Retrieved on2007-02-12 .] Damage, if any, is unknown.cite web|author=Servicio Meteorológico Nacional |year=1998|title=Tormenta Tropical "Javier" del Océano Pacífico|accessdate=2007-02-13|language=Spanish|url=http://smn.cna.gob.mx/ciclones/tempo1998/pacifico/javier/javier.html]Tropical Depression Twelve-E
Infobox Hurricane Small
Basin=EPac
Formed=October 1
Dissipated=October 3
1-min winds=30
Pressure=1003A tropical disturbance developed persistent convection in association with a low-level circulation, and organized into Tropical Depression Twelve-E late on October 1 about 350 miles (565 km) west-northwest of Manzanillo, Mexico. Within an environment of weak steering currents, the depression was initially forecast to track slowly west-northwestward and reach winds of 60 mph (95 km/h), but instead it drifted eastward before turning slowly to the west.cite web|author=Guiney|year=1998|title=Tropical Depression Twelve-E Discussion One|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-13|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/dis/NEP1298.001] cite web|author=Guiney|year=1998|title=Tropical Depression Twelve-E Best Track|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-13|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/1998td12e.html] The depression failed to organize and gradually worsened in appearance. Early on October 2, two ships reported southwest winds much further to the north, with theNational Hurricane Center indicating that either the center was exceedingly small, that no center existed at the time, or that the center was located far to the north of the thunderstorm activity. Operationally, the center was relocated further to the north,cite web|author=Rappaport|year=1998|title=Tropical Depression Twelve-E Discussion Three|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-13|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/dis/NEP1298.003] then relocated about convert|115|mi|km to the south six hours later based on visible satellite images,cite web|author=Lawrence|year=1998|title=Tropical Depression Twelve-E Discussion Four|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-13|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/dis/NEP1298.004] then again relocated to the north, coinciding with officials issuing the last advisory on the system. By early October 3, the depression possessed only intermittent convection,cite web|author=Avila|year=1998|title=Tropical Depression Twelve-E Discussion Six|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-13|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/dis/NEP1298.006] and later that day it dissipated to the southwest of theBaja California peninsula . It never affected land.Hurricane Kay
Infobox Hurricane Small
Basin=EPac
Track=Kay 1998 track.png
Formed=October 13
Dissipated=October 17
1-min winds=65
Pressure=987A small, low-level circulation separated itself from theIntertropical Convergence Zone on October 10, several hundred miles southwest of Baja California. The circulation was well defined, though its convection was initially minimal and disorganized. On October 12, the convection increased greatly, and the system was sufficiently organized to be classified Tropical Depression Thirteen-E early on October 13, about 715 miles (1150 km) southwest ofCabo San Lucas . Dvorak classifications also indicated winds of about 35 mph (55 km/h). Operationally, the depression was forecast to intensify to reach peak winds of 45 mph (70 km/h) while tracking steadily west-northwestward.cite web|author=Guiney|year=1998|title=Tropical Depression Thirteen-E Discussion One|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-11|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/dis/NEP1398.001]The storm center was at first ill-defined,cite web|author=Lawrence|year=1998|title=Tropical Depression Thirteen-E Discussion Two|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-11|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/dis/NEP1398.002] and post-season analysis estimates that it intensified into Tropical Storm Kay about 6 hours after developing. After becoming a tropical storm, Kay rapidly organized as it tracked generally westward. A pinhole eye developed in the center of the convection, and Kay attained hurricane status late on October 13, about 18 hours after developing. After remaining a hurricane for about 12 hours, the eye disappeared and the convection weakened, and early on October 14 Kay degenerated into a tropical storm. Within an environment of weak steering currents, the storm turned to the southwest, then to the south, after weakening to a tropical depression on October 15. Convection sporadically redeveloped, but failed to persist. Kay turned to the southeast and later to the east, and the system dissipated on October 17, about 330 miles (530 km) south-southwest of its origin. Kay never affected land.cite web|author=Lixion A. Avila|year=1998|title=Hurricane Kay Preliminary Report|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-11|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/1998kay.html]
Hurricane Lester
Infobox Hurricane Small
Basin=EPac
Track=Lester 1998 track.png
Formed=October 15
Dissipated=October 26
1-min winds=100
Pressure=965Atropical wave moved off the coast ofAfrica on September 29, and on October 5, an area of convection along the wave developed into Atlantic Hurricane Lisa. The wave axis continued westward, and after crossingCentral America convection increased as it tracked northwestward, and the system organized into Tropical Depression Fourteen-E on October 15, about 200 miles (320 km) south of Guatemala. It moved northwestward and late on the 15th it intensified into Tropical Storm Lester, about 115 miles (185 km/h) south of the border ofMexico and Guatemala, before attaining hurricane status on October 16. Lester continued westward and strengthened to reach a peak intensity of 115 mph (185 km/h) on October 22. Late on October 23, it degenerated into a tropical storm, and several days later, Lester dissipated on October 26.cite web|author=Miles B. Lawrence|year=1998|title=Hurricane Lester Preliminary Report|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-11|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/1998lester.html]Early in its lifetime, Lester produced heavy rainfall across southwestern
Guatemala . The rainfall destroyed some houses and killed livestock, and a mudslide from the heavy precipitation killed two children.cite news|author=Calgary Herald|date=1998-10-17|title=Weather Kills Two in Guatemala|accessdate=2007-02-11] InHonduras , rainfall from the hurricane destroyed a bridge inTegucigalpa , affecting about 1,000 people.cite news|author=Xinhua News Agency|date=1998-10-17|title=Heavy Rains Bring Bridge Down in Honduras|accessdate=2007-02-11] Moisture brought around the northeast periphery of theSierra Madre Occidental led to a narrow band of heavy rainfall along the upslope side of the mountain range, with a local precipitation maximum exceeding 14 inches (360 mm). [Hydrometeorological Prediction Center (2007). [http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/tropical/rain/lester1998.html Hurricane Lester.] Retrieved on2007-02-12 .] Though no surface reports are available, it is estimated that tropical-storm-force winds occurred along coastal areas of southern Mexico.Hurricane Madeline
Infobox Hurricane Small
Basin=EPac
Track=Madeline 1998 track.png
Formed=October 16
Dissipated=October 20
1-min winds=75
Pressure=979Atropical wave moved off the coast ofAfrica on September 25, and remained disorganized while crossing theAtlantic Ocean before crossingCentral America into thePacific Ocean . It continued westward, and on October 15 began to steadily organize until developing into Tropical Depression Fifteen-E on October 16, about 230 miles (370 km) west-southwest of Manzanillo,Mexico . At the western end of a mid-level ridge, the depression tracked north-northwestward. 12 hours after first developing, the depression intensified into Tropical Storm Madeline. Banding features gradually improved in organization, and late on October 17, Madeline attained hurricane status. On October 18, Madeline attained peak winds of 85 mph (140 km/h) about 95 miles (150 km) southwest ofSan Blas, Nayarit . Late on October 19, the hurricane degenerated into a tropical storm, and early on October 20, Madeline dissipated in the southern portion of theGulf of California .cite web|author=Max Mayfield|year=1998|title=Hurricane Madeline Preliminary Report|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2007-02-11|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/1998madeline.html]Some of the rainbands from Madeline moved over portions of southwest Mexico, with close to 9 inches (560 mm) falling at Cabo Corrientes. [Hydrometeorological Prediction Center (2007). [http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/tropical/rain/madeline1998.html Hurricane Madeline.] Retrieved on
2007-02-12 .] No damage or casualties were reported as a result of the storm in Mexico. Moisture from Madeline contributed to heavy rainfall across southeasternTexas , reaching over 22 inches (560 mm) in some locations. Thirty-one people died due to the flooding, and damage totaled $750 million (1998 USD).cite web|author=United States Department of Commerce|year=1999|title=South Texas Floods- October 17 – 22, 1998|accessdate=2007-02-11|url=http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/assessments/pdfs/txflood.pdf]Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) ranking
The table on the right shows the
Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) for each storm in the 1998 season. The ACE is, broadly speaking, a measure of the power of a storm multiplied by its duration, so longer-lived hurricanes have higher ACEs. The total ACE for the season was 133.97 × 104 kt2. Because several storms in 1998 were long-lasting or intense, the season's ACE was near-normal.cite web|author=National Climatic Data Center |publisher=NOAA |year=2005|accessdate=2006-08-10|url=http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/img/climate/research/2005/ann/ace-epac-nov30.png|title=East North Pacific ACE: 1949 — 2005] Hurricane Howard had the highest ACE, measuring 29.27 x 104 kt2.torm names
The following names were used for named storms that formed in the eastern Pacific in 1998. Names that were not assigned are in gray. No names were retired, so the list was used again in the 2004 season.
No central Pacific storms occurred; the first to develop would have been named Upana.
ee also
*
List of Pacific hurricanes
*List of Pacific hurricane seasons
*1998 Atlantic hurricane season
*1998 Pacific typhoon season
*1998 North Indian Ocean cyclone season
*South-West Indian Ocean cyclone seasons: 1997–98, 1998–99
*Australian region cyclone seasons: 1997–98, 1998–99
*South Pacific cyclone seasons: 1997–98, 1998–99References
External links
* [http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/1998epac.html NHC 1998 Pacific hurricane season archive]
* [http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/tropical/rain/1998.html HPC 1998 Tropical Cyclone Rainfall pages]
* [http://www.prh.noaa.gov/cphc/pages/hurrclimate.php#1998 Central Pacific Hurricane Center archive]
Wikimedia Foundation. 2010.