Potential Tropical Cyclone Helene was a tropical cyclone that formed in the Atlantic Ocean during the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season. The system developed from a tropical wave that emerged from the west coast of Africa on August 25, 2022. As the wave moved westward across the tropical Atlantic, it began to show signs of organization, with shower and thunderstorm activity increasing in coverage and intensity.
Formation and Early Development
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) began monitoring the system on August 26, 2022, designating it as a tropical wave with a low chance of development. However, as the system continued to move westward, it began to develop a more organized circulation, with a closed low-level circulation forming on August 28, 2022. At this point, the NHC upgraded the system to a potential tropical cyclone, assigning it the designation “Helene”.
Track and Intensity
Potential Tropical Cyclone Helene moved westward across the tropical Atlantic, passing to the south of the Cape Verde Islands on August 30, 2022. The system encountered favorable environmental conditions, including warm sea surface temperatures and low vertical wind shear, which allowed it to strengthen. On August 31, 2022, Helene reached its peak intensity, with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph (65 km/h) and a minimum central pressure of 1004 mbar (29.65 inHg).
| Date | Time (UTC) | Latitude | Longitude | Wind Speed (mph) | Pressure (mbar) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| August 28, 2022 | 12:00 | 14.5°N | 28.5°W | 30 | 1008 |
| August 30, 2022 | 00:00 | 16.2°N | 34.5°W | 35 | 1006 |
| August 31, 2022 | 12:00 | 18.5°N | 41.5°W | 40 | 1004 |
Impact and Dissipation
Potential Tropical Cyclone Helene did not have any significant impact on land, as it remained over the open ocean for its entire duration. The system began to weaken on September 1, 2022, as it encountered increasing vertical wind shear and cooler sea surface temperatures. By September 2, 2022, Helene had degenerated into a tropical wave, with the NHC issuing its final advisory on the system.
Lessons Learned
The formation and development of Potential Tropical Cyclone Helene highlight the importance of monitoring tropical waves and disturbances in the Atlantic Ocean, particularly during the peak months of the hurricane season. The use of advanced computer models and satellite imagery allowed forecasters to track the system’s progression and provide timely warnings to interests in the region.
The National Hurricane Center plays a critical role in monitoring and forecasting tropical cyclones, providing vital information to help protect life and property. In the case of Potential Tropical Cyclone Helene, the NHC's accurate forecasting and warnings allowed for the implementation of necessary precautions, minimizing the potential for damage and loss of life.
What is the difference between a tropical cyclone and a potential tropical cyclone?
+A tropical cyclone is a rotating, organized system of clouds and thunderstorms that forms over warm ocean waters, with maximum sustained winds of 39 mph (63 km/h) or higher. A potential tropical cyclone, on the other hand, is a system that has the potential to develop into a tropical cyclone, but does not yet meet the criteria for a tropical depression or tropical storm.
How are tropical cyclones forecasted and tracked?
+Tropical cyclones are forecasted and tracked using a combination of satellite imagery, radar, and computer models. The National Hurricane Center uses a variety of tools, including the GFS and ECMWF models, to predict the track and intensity of tropical cyclones. Additionally, reconnaissance aircraft and ships at sea provide vital data on the system's wind speed, pressure, and other characteristics.
In conclusion, Potential Tropical Cyclone Helene was a significant event in the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season, highlighting the importance of monitoring and forecasting tropical cyclones. The use of advanced technology and accurate forecasting allowed for the implementation of necessary precautions, minimizing the potential for damage and loss of life. As the hurricane season continues, it is essential to remain vigilant and prepared for the potential formation of tropical cyclones.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Hurricane Center (NHC) provide critical information and updates on tropical cyclones, helping to protect life and property. By staying informed and following the latest forecasts and warnings, individuals can take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and the safety of those around them.
