Tropical Cyclone Nine, also known as Tropical Storm Henri, was a tropical cyclone that formed over the Atlantic Ocean in August 2021. The storm was the ninth tropical cyclone of the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season and the third to form in the month of August. According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Tropical Cyclone Nine formed on August 13, 2021, at 11:00 PM AST, as a tropical depression, approximately 135 miles (215 km) east-southeast of Bermuda.
Formation and Track
The formation of Tropical Cyclone Nine was facilitated by a combination of favorable atmospheric and oceanic conditions, including warm sea surface temperatures and low vertical wind shear. The storm initially moved northwestward, parallel to the eastern seaboard of the United States, before turning northward and then northeastward as it interacted with a mid-latitude trough. The NHC issued advisories on the storm from August 13 to August 23, 2021, during which time it reached its peak intensity as a tropical storm with maximum sustained winds of 70 mph (110 km/h) and a minimum central pressure of 994 mbar (29.35 inHg).
Impact and Landfall
Tropical Cyclone Nine made landfall on August 22, 2021, at 12:15 PM EDT, in Rhode Island, approximately 15 miles (25 km) south of Westerly, as a tropical storm. The storm brought significant rainfall and strong winds to the northeastern United States, particularly in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. According to reports from the National Weather Service, the storm produced rainfall totals of up to 6 inches (152 mm) in some areas, with isolated areas receiving over 10 inches (254 mm) of rainfall. The strong winds from the storm also caused power outages and property damage, with estimated damages totaling over $100 million.
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Peak Intensity | 70 mph (110 km/h) |
| Minimum Central Pressure | 994 mbar (29.35 inHg) |
| Landfall Location | Rhode Island, USA |
| Landfall Time | August 22, 2021, 12:15 PM EDT |
| Rainfall Totals | Up to 6 inches (152 mm) |
| Damage Estimates | Over $100 million |
Forecasting and Modeling
The forecasting and modeling of Tropical Cyclone Nine were conducted by the NHC using a range of tools and techniques, including satellite imagery, radar data, and numerical weather prediction models. The NHC used the GFS (Global Forecast System) and ECMWF (European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts) models to predict the track and intensity of the storm, with the GFS model performing well in predicting the storm’s northward turn and landfall in Rhode Island. The ECMWF model also performed well, accurately predicting the storm’s peak intensity and rainfall totals.
Lessons Learned
The forecasting and modeling of Tropical Cyclone Nine highlighted the importance of accurate and timely predictions in mitigating the impacts of tropical cyclones. The use of advanced modeling tools and techniques, such as ensemble forecasting and model output statistics, can help to improve the accuracy and reliability of tropical cyclone forecasts. Additionally, the storm highlighted the need for effective communication and coordination between forecasters, emergency management officials, and the public to ensure that timely and accurate information is disseminated to those affected by the storm.
- The use of satellite imagery and radar data can help to improve the accuracy of tropical cyclone forecasting.
- Advanced modeling tools and techniques, such as ensemble forecasting and model output statistics, can help to improve the accuracy and reliability of tropical cyclone forecasts.
- Effective communication and coordination between forecasters, emergency management officials, and the public are critical in mitigating the impacts of tropical cyclones.
What was the peak intensity of Tropical Cyclone Nine?
+The peak intensity of Tropical Cyclone Nine was 70 mph (110 km/h), with a minimum central pressure of 994 mbar (29.35 inHg).
Where did Tropical Cyclone Nine make landfall?
+Tropical Cyclone Nine made landfall in Rhode Island, approximately 15 miles (25 km) south of Westerly, on August 22, 2021, at 12:15 PM EDT.
What were the estimated damages from Tropical Cyclone Nine?
+The estimated damages from Tropical Cyclone Nine were over $100 million, primarily due to rainfall and wind-related damage.
