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{{Short description|Category 5 Pacific hurricane in 1994}}
{{Infobox Hurricane
{{Infobox weather event
| Name=Hurricane Gilma
| name = Hurricane Gilma
| Type=hurricane
| image = Gilma 1994-07-24 1901Z (cropped).png
⚫
| Year=1994
| caption = Gilma at peak intensity on July 24
| Basin=EPac
| Image location= Gilma Jul 24 1994 0442Z.png
| formed = July 21, 1994
⚫
| low = July 31, 1994
| Image name=Satellite image of Hurricane Gilma on July 24
| dissipated = August 2, 1994
| alt=Satellite image of a large, mature hurricane. The structure of the storm is similar to the number "9", with a single, large rainband curving into the center. At the center, there is a small, well-defined eye.
}}{{Infobox weather event/NWS
⚫
| Formed=July 21, 1994
⚫
| winds = 140
| Dissipated=July 31, 1994
| pressure = 920
⚫
| 1-min winds=140
}}{{Infobox weather event/Effects
| Pressure=920
⚫
| year = 1994
| Pressurepost=Estimated
| fatalities = None
| Damages=Minimal
| damage = Minimal
| Fatalities=None
| Areas=[[Johnston Atoll]]
| areas = [[Hawaiian Islands]], [[Johnston Atoll]]
}}{{Infobox weather event/Footer
| Hurricane season=[[1994 Pacific hurricane season]]
| season = [[1994 Pacific hurricane season]]
}}
}}
⚫
'''Hurricane Gilma''' was one of the [[List of most intense tropical cyclones|most intense]] Eastern Pacific [[tropical cyclone]]s on record and the second of three [[Category 5 hurricane]]s during the active [[1994 Pacific hurricane season]]. Developing from a westward tracking [[tropical wave]] over the open waters of the eastern Pacific Ocean on July 21, the pre-Gilma tropical depression was initially large and disorganized. Gradual development took place over the following day before [[rapid intensification]] began. By July 23, the storm intensified into a hurricane and later a [[Category 5 hurricane|Category 5 storm]] on July 24. As Gilma reached this intensity, it crossed into the [[Central Pacific Hurricane Center|Central Pacific basin]], the fourth consecutive storm to do so.


⚫
The storm peaked early on July 24 with winds of {{convert|160|mph|km/h|abbr=on|round=5}} and a [[barometric pressure]] estimated at 920 mbar (hPa; {{convert|920|mbar|inHg|abbr=on|sigfig=4|disp=out}}). The following day, unknown factors caused the storm to suddenly weaken before increasing [[wind shear]] took over. The storm gradually weakened for the duration of its existence, turning slowly to the northwest. Late on July 28, the storm brushed [[Johnston Atoll]], bringing gusty winds and light rainfall to the region. Gilma persisted until July 31 at which time it was downgraded to a tropical depression and dissipated over open waters.
⚫
'''Hurricane Gilma''' was one of the [[List of most intense tropical cyclones|most intense]] [[Pacific hurricane]]s on record and the second of three [[SSHS#Category 5|Category 5 hurricanes]] during the active [[1994 Pacific hurricane season]]. Developing from a westward tracking [[tropical wave]] over the open waters of the eastern Pacific Ocean on July 21, the pre-Gilma tropical depression was initially large and disorganized. Gradual development took place over the following day before [[Rapid deepening|rapid intensification]] began. By July 23, the storm intensified into a hurricane and later a [[SSHS#Category 5|Category 5 storm]] on July 24. As Gilma reached this intensity, it crossed into the [[Central Pacific Hurricane Center|Central Pacific basin]], the fourth consecutive storm to do so.

⚫
The storm peaked early on July 24 with winds of 160 mph (260 km/h) and a [[barometric pressure]] estimated at 920 mbar (hPa; 27.17 inHg). The following day, unknown factors caused the storm to suddenly weaken before increasing [[wind shear]] took over. The storm gradually weakened for the duration of its existence, turning slowly to the northwest. Late on July 28, the storm brushed [[Johnston Atoll]], bringing gusty winds and light rainfall to the region. Gilma persisted until July 31 at which time it was downgraded to a tropical depression and dissipated over open waters.


==Meteorological history==
==Meteorological history==
{{storm path|Gilma 1994 track.png|alt=Track map of a major hurricane that starts over the eastern Pacific Ocean, heading due west for most of its duration. It bypasses Hawaii, located at the center of the image, to the south before shifting northwest and ending over water.}}
{{storm path|Gilma 1994 path.png|alt=Track map of a major hurricane that starts over the eastern Pacific Ocean, heading due west for most of its duration. It bypasses Hawaii, located at the center of the image, to the south before shifting northwest and ending over water.|colors=new}}
Hurricane Gilma originated from a [[tropical wave]] that moved off the coast of Africa and traversed the Atlantic Ocean during the second week of July 1994. The wave was of little note until it crossed [[Central America]] and entered the [[Pacific hurricane|Northeastern Pacific hurricane basin]] on July&nbsp;15-16. [[Atmospheric convection|Convection]] began to increase; however, the system remained disorganized. Tracking westward, gradual development took place, leading to the [[Dvorak technique|Dvorak classification]] being initiated on July&nbsp;20. Several hours later, the [[National Hurricane Center]] (NHC) designated the system as Tropical Depression Seven-E.<ref name="PR1">{{cite web|author=Richard J. Pasch|publisher=National Hurricane Center|date=January 20, 1995|accessdate=January 3, 2010|title=Hurricane Gilma Preliminary Report (Page 1)|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/epacific/ep1994-prelim/gilma/prelim01.gif}}</ref> A strong [[Ridge (meteorology)|ridge]] situated north of the depression steered the system steadily westward.<ref>{{cite web|author=Miles B. Lawrence|publisher=National Hurricane Center|date=July 21, 1994|accessdate=January 3, 2010|title=Tropical Depression Seven-E Discussion One|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/epacific/ep1994/gilma/tropdisc/nep0794.001}}</ref> This movement would remain the same throughout most of the storm's existence.<ref name="PR1"/> The depression was initially hard to locate due to its large size.<ref>{{cite web|author=Edward N. Rappaport|publisher=National Hurricane Center|date=July 21, 1994|accessdate=January 3, 2010|title=Tropical Depression Seven-E Discussion Two|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/epacific/ep1994/gilma/tropdisc/nep0794.002}}</ref>
Hurricane Gilma originated from a [[tropical wave]] that moved off the coast of Africa and traversed the Atlantic Ocean during the second week of July 1994. The wave was of little note until it crossed Central America and entered the [[Pacific hurricane|Northeastern Pacific hurricane basin]] on July&nbsp;15–16. [[Atmospheric convection|Convection]] began to increase; however, the system remained disorganized. Tracking westward, gradual development took place, leading to the [[Dvorak technique|Dvorak classification]] being initiated on July&nbsp;20. Several hours later, the [[National Hurricane Center]] (NHC) designated the system as Tropical Depression Seven-E.<ref name="PR1">{{cite web|author=Richard J. Pasch|publisher=National Hurricane Center|date=January 20, 1995|access-date=January 3, 2010|title=Hurricane Gilma Preliminary Report (Page 1)|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/epacific/ep1994-prelim/gilma/prelim01.gif}}</ref> A strong [[Ridge (meteorology)|ridge]] situated north of the depression steered the system steadily westward.<ref>{{cite web|author=Miles B. Lawrence|publisher=National Hurricane Center|date=July 21, 1994|access-date=January 3, 2010|title=Tropical Depression Seven-E Discussion One|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/epacific/ep1994/gilma/tropdisc/nep0794.001}}</ref> This movement would remain the same throughout most of the storm's existence.<ref name="PR1"/> The depression was initially hard to locate due to its large size.<ref>{{cite web|author=Edward N. Rappaport|publisher=National Hurricane Center|date=July 21, 1994|access-date=January 3, 2010|title=Tropical Depression Seven-E Discussion Two|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/epacific/ep1994/gilma/tropdisc/nep0794.002}}</ref>


Following an increase in organization, the depression intensified into a tropical storm early on July&nbsp;22, at which time it was [[tropical cyclone naming|named]] Gilma.<ref name="PR1"/> Deep convection developed around the [[Eye (cyclone)|center of circulation]] throughout the day and [[Rainband|banding features]] became apparent on the west and south sides of the storm.<ref>{{cite web|author=Edward N. Rappaport|publisher=National Hurricane Center|date=July 22, 1994|accessdate=January 3, 2010|title=Tropical Storm Gilma Discussion Six|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/epacific/ep1994/gilma/tropdisc/nep0794.006}}</ref> Only 24&nbsp;hours after becoming a tropical storm, Gilma quickly intensified into a hurricane.<ref name="PR1"/> Low [[wind shear]] and warm [[sea surface temperature]]s, recorded up to {{convert|29|C|F|abbr=on}} by a ship near the hurricane, allowed the storm to undergo [[Rapid deepening|rapid intensification]].<ref>{{cite web|author=Lixion A. Avila|publisher=National Hurricane Center|date=July 22, 1994|accessdate=January 3, 2010|title=Hurricane Gilma Discussion Eight|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/epacific/ep1994/gilma/tropdisc/nep0794.008}}</ref> This rate of intensification continued throughout most of July&nbsp;23, resulting in the system attaining [[SSHS#Category 4|Category 4 status]] on the [[Saffir–Simpson Hurricane Scale]].<ref name="PR1"/> By this time, a small, well-defined [[Eye (cyclone)|eye]] had developed within the center of the hurricane surrounded by very deep convection.<ref name="Disc11">{{cite web|author=Max Mayfield|publisher=National Hurricane Center|date=July 23, 1994|accessdate=January 3, 2010|title=Hurricane Gilma Discussion Eleven|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/epacific/ep1994/gilma/tropdisc/nep0794.011}}</ref>
Following an increase in organization, the depression intensified into a tropical storm early on July&nbsp;22, at which time it was [[tropical cyclone naming|named]] Gilma.<ref name="PR1"/> Deep convection developed around the [[Eye (cyclone)|center of circulation]] throughout the day and [[Rainband|banding features]] became apparent on the west and south sides of the storm.<ref>{{cite web|author=Edward N. Rappaport|publisher=National Hurricane Center|date=July 22, 1994|access-date=January 3, 2010|title=Tropical Storm Gilma Discussion Six|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/epacific/ep1994/gilma/tropdisc/nep0794.006}}</ref> Only 24&nbsp;hours after becoming a tropical storm, Gilma quickly intensified into a hurricane.<ref name="PR1"/> Low [[wind shear]] and warm [[sea surface temperature]]s, recorded up to {{convert|29|C|F|abbr=on}} by a ship near the hurricane, allowed the storm to undergo [[rapid intensification]].<ref>{{cite web|author=Lixion A. Avila|publisher=National Hurricane Center|date=July 22, 1994|access-date=January 3, 2010|title=Hurricane Gilma Discussion Eight|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/epacific/ep1994/gilma/tropdisc/nep0794.008}}</ref> This rate of intensification continued throughout most of July&nbsp;23, resulting in the system attaining [[Category 4 hurricane|Category 4 status]] on the [[Saffir–Simpson hurricane scale]].<ref name="PR1"/> By this time, a small, well-defined [[Eye (cyclone)|eye]] had developed within the center of the hurricane surrounded by very deep convection.<ref name="Disc11">{{cite web|author=Max Mayfield|publisher=National Hurricane Center|date=July 23, 1994|access-date=January 3, 2010|title=Hurricane Gilma Discussion Eleven|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/epacific/ep1994/gilma/tropdisc/nep0794.011}}</ref>
[[Image:Hurricane_Gilma_25_july_1994_0047Z.jpg|thumb|Hurricane Gilma as a Category 5 on July 25]]]


On July&nbsp;24, the storm crossed [[140th meridian west|140°W]], entering the [[Central Pacific Hurricane Center]]'s (CPHC) [[area of responsibility]].<ref name="PR1"/><ref name="CPHC"/> Upon entering the region, Gilma became the fourth consecutive cyclone to move into the CPHC region.<ref name="Disc11"/><ref name="HURDAT">{{cite web|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/tracks1949to2008_epa.txt |title=Eastern North Pacific Tracks File 1949-2008 |publisher=National Hurricane Center |date=2009 |accessdate=January 3, 2010 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20090715133317/http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/tracks1949to2008_epa.txt |archivedate=July 15, 2009 }}</ref> Several hours later, Gilma attained its peak intensity as a [[SSHS#Category 5|Category 5 hurricane]] with winds of 160&nbsp;mph (260&nbsp;km/h) and a [[barometric pressure]] estimated at 920&nbsp;mbar (hPa; 27.17&nbsp;inHg).<ref name="HURDAT"/> After maintaining this intensity for roughly 12&nbsp;hours, the storm abruptly weakened. Within a few hours, maximum winds decreased by 45&nbsp;mph (75&nbsp;km/h) to 115&nbsp;mph (185&nbsp;km/h), a low-end [[SSHS#Category 3|Category 3 hurricane]].<ref name="CPHC"/> The reason for the sudden weakening is unknown; although the [[tropical upper tropospheric trough]] originally located over the storm, providing it with a favorable [[anticyclone|anticyclonic flow]], shifted westward to the [[International Date Line]]. Additionally, the storm's eye became obscured by [[cirrus cloud]]s.<ref>{{cite web|author=Rosendal|publisher=Central Pacific Hurricane Center|date=July 25, 1994|accessdate=January 3, 2010|title=Hurricane Gilma Discussion Eighteen|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/epacific/ep1994/gilma/tropdisc/tcd2515z.gif}}</ref>
On July&nbsp;24, the storm crossed [[140th meridian west|140°W]], entering the [[Central Pacific Hurricane Center]]'s (CPHC) [[area of responsibility]].<ref name="PR1"/><ref name="CPHC"/> Upon entering the region, Gilma became the fourth consecutive cyclone to move into the CPHC region.<ref name="Disc11"/><ref name="HURDAT">{{cite web|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/tracks1949to2008_epa.txt |title=Eastern North Pacific Tracks File 1949-2008 |publisher=National Hurricane Center |date=2009 |access-date=January 3, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090715133317/http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/tracks1949to2008_epa.txt |archive-date=July 15, 2009 }}</ref> Several hours later, Gilma attained its peak intensity as a [[Category 5 hurricane]] with winds of {{convert|160|mph|km/h|abbr=on|round=5}} and a [[barometric pressure]] estimated at 920 mbar (hPa; {{convert|920|mbar|inHg|abbr=on|sigfig=4|disp=out}}).<ref name="HURDAT"/> After maintaining this intensity for roughly 12&nbsp;hours, the storm abruptly weakened. Within a few hours, maximum winds decreased by {{convert|45|mph|km/h|abbr=on|round=5}} to {{convert|115|mph|km/h|abbr=on|round=5}}, a low-end [[Category 3 hurricane]].<ref name="CPHC"/> The reason for the sudden weakening is unknown; although the [[tropical upper tropospheric trough]] originally located over the storm, providing it with a favorable [[anticyclone|anticyclonic flow]], shifted westward to the [[International Date Line]]. Additionally, the storm's eye became obscured by [[cirrus cloud]]s.<ref>{{cite web|author=Rosendal|publisher=Central Pacific Hurricane Center|date=July 25, 1994|access-date=January 3, 2010|title=Hurricane Gilma Discussion Eighteen|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/epacific/ep1994/gilma/tropdisc/tcd2515z.gif}}</ref>


{{Most intense Pacific hurricanes|align=right}}
{{Most intense Pacific hurricanes|align=right}}
After maintaining Category 3 intensity for 24&nbsp;hours, the combination of increasing wind shear and degrading [[Outflow (meteorology)|outflow]], Gilma resumed its weakening trend.<ref name="PR1"/><ref name="CPHC"/> Late on July&nbsp;27, the hurricane weakened to a tropical storm as winds fell below the {{convert|74|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} threshold.<ref name="HURDAT"/> Although weakening, CPHC forecaster Sasaki noted that the storm may have re-intensified slightly shortly after being downgraded.<ref>{{cite web|author=Sasaki|publisher=Central Pacific Hurricane Center|date=July 27, 1994|accessdate=January 3, 2010|title=Tropical Storm Gilma Discussion Twenty-Six|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/epacific/ep1994/gilma/tropdisc/tcd2715z.gif}}</ref> The following morning, the center of Gilma became devoid of convection, exposing the low-level circulation.<ref>{{cite web|author=Farrell|publisher=Central Pacific Hurricane Center|date=July 28, 1994|accessdate=January 3, 2010|title=Tropical Storm Gilma Discussion Twenty-Eight|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/epacific/ep1994/gilma/tropdisc/tcd2803z.gif}}</ref> By this time, the weakening storm began a west-northwesterly track, eventually taking the storm within {{convert|100|mi|km|abbr=on}} of [[Johnston Atoll]] late on July&nbsp;28. Gradual weakening continued to take place throughout the rest of the storm's existence, leading to its downgrade to a tropical depression on July&nbsp;30. Several hours after being declared a tropical depression, the storm dissipated early on July&nbsp;31 over open waters south of [[Midway Atoll]].<ref name="CPHC"/>
After maintaining Category 3 intensity for 24&nbsp;hours, the combination of increasing wind shear and degrading [[Outflow (meteorology)|outflow]], Gilma resumed its weakening trend.<ref name="PR1"/><ref name="CPHC"/> Late on July&nbsp;27, the hurricane weakened to a tropical storm as winds fell below the {{convert|74|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} threshold.<ref name="HURDAT"/> Although weakening, CPHC forecaster Sasaki noted that the storm may have re-intensified slightly shortly after being downgraded.<ref>{{cite web|author=Sasaki|publisher=Central Pacific Hurricane Center|date=July 27, 1994|access-date=January 3, 2010|title=Tropical Storm Gilma Discussion Twenty-Six|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/epacific/ep1994/gilma/tropdisc/tcd2715z.gif}}</ref> The following morning, the center of Gilma became devoid of convection, exposing the low-level circulation.<ref>{{cite web|author=Farrell|publisher=Central Pacific Hurricane Center|date=July 28, 1994|access-date=January 3, 2010|title=Tropical Storm Gilma Discussion Twenty-Eight|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/epacific/ep1994/gilma/tropdisc/tcd2803z.gif}}</ref> By this time, the weakening storm began a west-northwesterly track, eventually taking the storm within {{convert|100|mi|km|abbr=on}} of [[Johnston Atoll]] late on July&nbsp;28. Gradual weakening continued to take place throughout the rest of the storm's existence, leading to its downgrade to a tropical depression on July&nbsp;30. Several hours after being declared a tropical depression, the storm dissipated early on July&nbsp;31 over open waters south of [[Midway Atoll]].<ref name="CPHC"/>


==Impact==
==Impact==
The hurricane's only impact was on [[Johnston Atoll]]. The island received light rain, wind gusts to near [[gale force]],<ref name="PR2"/> and some surf.<ref name=CPHC>{{cite web|url=http://www.prh.noaa.gov/cphc/summaries/1994.php|title=The 1994 Central Pacific Tropical Cyclone Season|publisher=Central Pacific Hurricane Center|accessdate=January 3, 2010}}</ref> No loss of life or damage was reported.<ref name="PR2">{{cite web|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/epacific/ep1994-prelim/gilma/prelim02.gif|title=Preliminary Report Hurricane Gilma (Page 2)|publisher=National Hurricane Center|author=Richard J. Pasch|date=January 20, 1995|accessdate=January 3, 2010}}</ref> Gilma's name was not [[Tropical cyclone naming#Retirement|retired]] after the 1994 season, and it was used again in the [[2000 Pacific hurricane season|2000]] and [[2006 Pacific hurricane season|2006 seasons]].<ref name="HURDAT"/> However, in 2007, the Central Pacific Hurricane Center requested that the name Gilma, along with 14 other names, be retired as they have become memorable due to the threat of damage.<ref name=IDHC>{{cite web|url=http://www.ofcm.gov/ihc07/web-61st-IHC-Booklet.pdf |title=61st Interdepertmental Hurricane Conference |publisher=Office of the Federal Coordinator for Meteorology |date=March 2007 |pages=115 |format=[[PDF]] |accessdate=August 28, 2008 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5f9vkkp2f?url=http://www.ofcm.gov/ihc07/web-61st-IHC-Booklet.pdf |archivedate=March 10, 2009 |df= }}</ref> That proposal was not accepted and the name "Gilma" remained on the list for 2012.<ref name=WMO>{{cite web|format=[[PDF]]|url=http://www.wmo.int/pages/prog/www/tcp/documents/FactShtTCNames1July05.pdf|title=Fact Sheet Tropical Cyclone Names|page=4|date=July 1, 2005|publisher=World Meteorological Organization|accessdate=August 26, 2008}}</ref>
The hurricane's only impact was on [[Johnston Atoll]]. The island received light rain, wind gusts to near [[gale force]],<ref name="PR2"/> and some surf.<ref name=CPHC>{{cite web|url=http://www.prh.noaa.gov/cphc/summaries/1994.php|title=The 1994 Central Pacific Tropical Cyclone Season|publisher=Central Pacific Hurricane Center|access-date=January 3, 2010}}</ref> No loss of life or damage was reported.<ref name="PR2">{{cite web|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/epacific/ep1994-prelim/gilma/prelim02.gif|title=Preliminary Report Hurricane Gilma (Page 2)|publisher=National Hurricane Center|author=Richard J. Pasch|date=January 20, 1995|access-date=January 3, 2010}}</ref> Gilma's name was not [[Tropical cyclone naming#Retirement|retired]] after the 1994 season, and it was used again in the [[2000 Pacific hurricane season|2000]] and [[2006 Pacific hurricane season|2006 seasons]].<ref name="HURDAT"/> However, in 2007, the Central Pacific Hurricane Center requested that the name Gilma, along with 14 other names, be retired as they have become memorable due to the threat of damage.<ref name=IDHC>{{cite web|url=http://www.ofcm.gov/ihc07/web-61st-IHC-Booklet.pdf |title=61st Interdepertmental Hurricane Conference |publisher=Office of the Federal Coordinator for Meteorology |date=March 2007 |pages=115 |access-date=August 28, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090303234018/http://www.ofcm.gov/ihc07/web-61st-IHC-Booklet.pdf |archive-date=March 3, 2009 }}</ref> That proposal was not accepted and the name "Gilma" remained on the list for 2012.<ref name=WMO>{{cite web|url=http://www.wmo.int/pages/prog/www/tcp/documents/FactShtTCNames1July05.pdf|title=Fact Sheet Tropical Cyclone Names|page=4|date=July 1, 2005|publisher=World Meteorological Organization|access-date=August 26, 2008}}</ref>


==See also==
==See also==
{{Portal|Tropical cyclones}}
{{Portal|Tropical cyclones}}
*[[List of Category 5 Pacific hurricanes]]
*[[List of Category 5 Pacific hurricanes]]
*[[Hurricane Gilma|Other storms of the same name]]
*[[1994 Pacific hurricane season]]
*[[1994 Pacific hurricane season]]
*[[Hurricane Emilia (1994)]]&nbsp;– a similar hurricane that preceded Gilma
*[[Hurricane Emilia (1994)]]&nbsp;– a similar hurricane that preceded Gilma
*[[Hurricane Walaka]] (2018)


==References==
==References==

Latest revision as of 23:47, 26 August 2024

Hurricane Gilma
Gilma at peak intensity on July 24
Meteorological history
FormedJuly 21, 1994
Remnant lowJuly 31, 1994
DissipatedAugust 2, 1994
Category 5 major hurricane
1-minute sustained (SSHWS/NWS)
Highest winds160 mph (260 km/h)
Lowest pressure920 mbar (hPa); 27.17 inHg
Overall effects
FatalitiesNone
DamageMinimal
Areas affectedHawaiian Islands, Johnston Atoll
IBTrACSEdit this at Wikidata
Part of the 1994 Pacific hurricane season

Hurricane Gilma was one of the most intense Eastern Pacific tropical cyclones on record and the second of three Category 5 hurricanes during the active 1994 Pacific hurricane season. Developing from a westward tracking tropical wave over the open waters of the eastern Pacific Ocean on July 21, the pre-Gilma tropical depression was initially large and disorganized. Gradual development took place over the following day before rapid intensification began. By July 23, the storm intensified into a hurricane and later a Category 5 storm on July 24. As Gilma reached this intensity, it crossed into the Central Pacific basin, the fourth consecutive storm to do so.

The storm peaked early on July 24 with winds of 160 mph (255 km/h) and a barometric pressure estimated at 920 mbar (hPa; 27.17 inHg). The following day, unknown factors caused the storm to suddenly weaken before increasing wind shear took over. The storm gradually weakened for the duration of its existence, turning slowly to the northwest. Late on July 28, the storm brushed Johnston Atoll, bringing gusty winds and light rainfall to the region. Gilma persisted until July 31 at which time it was downgraded to a tropical depression and dissipated over open waters.

Meteorological history

[edit]
Track map of a major hurricane that starts over the eastern Pacific Ocean, heading due west for most of its duration. It bypasses Hawaii, located at the center of the image, to the south before shifting northwest and ending over water.
Map plotting the storm's track and intensity, according to the Saffir–Simpson scale
Map key
Saffir–Simpson scale
  Tropical depression (≤38 mph, ≤62 km/h)
  Tropical storm (39–73 mph, 63–118 km/h)
  Category 1 (74–95 mph, 119–153 km/h)
  Category 2 (96–110 mph, 154–177 km/h)
  Category 3 (111–129 mph, 178–208 km/h)
  Category 4 (130–156 mph, 209–251 km/h)
  Category 5 (≥157 mph, ≥252 km/h)
  Unknown
Storm type
triangle Extratropical cyclone, remnant low, tropical disturbance, or monsoon depression

Hurricane Gilma originated from a tropical wave that moved off the coast of Africa and traversed the Atlantic Ocean during the second week of July 1994. The wave was of little note until it crossed Central America and entered the Northeastern Pacific hurricane basin on July 15–16. Convection began to increase; however, the system remained disorganized. Tracking westward, gradual development took place, leading to the Dvorak classification being initiated on July 20. Several hours later, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) designated the system as Tropical Depression Seven-E.[1] A strong ridge situated north of the depression steered the system steadily westward.[2] This movement would remain the same throughout most of the storm's existence.[1] The depression was initially hard to locate due to its large size.[3]

Following an increase in organization, the depression intensified into a tropical storm early on July 22, at which time it was named Gilma.[1] Deep convection developed around the center of circulation throughout the day and banding features became apparent on the west and south sides of the storm.[4] Only 24 hours after becoming a tropical storm, Gilma quickly intensified into a hurricane.[1] Low wind shear and warm sea surface temperatures, recorded up to 29 °C (84 °F) by a ship near the hurricane, allowed the storm to undergo rapid intensification.[5] This rate of intensification continued throughout most of July 23, resulting in the system attaining Category 4 status on the Saffir–Simpson hurricane scale.[1] By this time, a small, well-defined eye had developed within the center of the hurricane surrounded by very deep convection.[6]

On July 24, the storm crossed 140°W, entering the Central Pacific Hurricane Center's (CPHC) area of responsibility.[1][7] Upon entering the region, Gilma became the fourth consecutive cyclone to move into the CPHC region.[6][8] Several hours later, Gilma attained its peak intensity as a Category 5 hurricane with winds of 160 mph (255 km/h) and a barometric pressure estimated at 920 mbar (hPa; 27.17 inHg).[8] After maintaining this intensity for roughly 12 hours, the storm abruptly weakened. Within a few hours, maximum winds decreased by 45 mph (70 km/h) to 115 mph (185 km/h), a low-end Category 3 hurricane.[7] The reason for the sudden weakening is unknown; although the tropical upper tropospheric trough originally located over the storm, providing it with a favorable anticyclonic flow, shifted westward to the International Date Line. Additionally, the storm's eye became obscured by cirrus clouds.[9]

Most intense Pacific hurricanes[10]
Rank Hurricane Season Pressure
hPa inHg
1 Patricia 2015 872 25.75
2 Linda 1997 902 26.64
3 Rick 2009 906 26.76
4 Kenna 2002 913 26.96
5 Ava 1973 915 27.02
Ioke 2006
7 Marie 2014 918 27.11
Odile
9 Guillermo 1997 919 27.14
10 Gilma 1994 920 27.17
Listing is only for tropical cyclones in the Pacific Ocean
north of the equator and east of the International Dateline

After maintaining Category 3 intensity for 24 hours, the combination of increasing wind shear and degrading outflow, Gilma resumed its weakening trend.[1][7] Late on July 27, the hurricane weakened to a tropical storm as winds fell below the 74 mph (119 km/h) threshold.[8] Although weakening, CPHC forecaster Sasaki noted that the storm may have re-intensified slightly shortly after being downgraded.[11] The following morning, the center of Gilma became devoid of convection, exposing the low-level circulation.[12] By this time, the weakening storm began a west-northwesterly track, eventually taking the storm within 100 mi (160 km) of Johnston Atoll late on July 28. Gradual weakening continued to take place throughout the rest of the storm's existence, leading to its downgrade to a tropical depression on July 30. Several hours after being declared a tropical depression, the storm dissipated early on July 31 over open waters south of Midway Atoll.[7]

Impact

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The hurricane's only impact was on Johnston Atoll. The island received light rain, wind gusts to near gale force,[13] and some surf.[7] No loss of life or damage was reported.[13] Gilma's name was not retired after the 1994 season, and it was used again in the 2000 and 2006 seasons.[8] However, in 2007, the Central Pacific Hurricane Center requested that the name Gilma, along with 14 other names, be retired as they have become memorable due to the threat of damage.[14] That proposal was not accepted and the name "Gilma" remained on the list for 2012.[15]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b c d e f g Richard J. Pasch (January 20, 1995). "Hurricane Gilma Preliminary Report (Page 1)". National Hurricane Center. Retrieved January 3, 2010.
  2. ^ Miles B. Lawrence (July 21, 1994). "Tropical Depression Seven-E Discussion One". National Hurricane Center. Retrieved January 3, 2010.
  3. ^ Edward N. Rappaport (July 21, 1994). "Tropical Depression Seven-E Discussion Two". National Hurricane Center. Retrieved January 3, 2010.
  4. ^ Edward N. Rappaport (July 22, 1994). "Tropical Storm Gilma Discussion Six". National Hurricane Center. Retrieved January 3, 2010.
  5. ^ Lixion A. Avila (July 22, 1994). "Hurricane Gilma Discussion Eight". National Hurricane Center. Retrieved January 3, 2010.
  6. ^ a b Max Mayfield (July 23, 1994). "Hurricane Gilma Discussion Eleven". National Hurricane Center. Retrieved January 3, 2010.
  7. ^ a b c d e "The 1994 Central Pacific Tropical Cyclone Season". Central Pacific Hurricane Center. Retrieved January 3, 2010.
  8. ^ a b c d "Eastern North Pacific Tracks File 1949-2008". National Hurricane Center. 2009. Archived from the original on July 15, 2009. Retrieved January 3, 2010.
  9. ^ Rosendal (July 25, 1994). "Hurricane Gilma Discussion Eighteen". Central Pacific Hurricane Center. Retrieved January 3, 2010.
  10. ^ National Hurricane Center; Hurricane Research Division; Central Pacific Hurricane Center (April 26, 2024). "The Northeast and North Central Pacific hurricane database 1949–2023". United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Weather Service. Archived from the original on May 29, 2024. A guide on how to read the database is available here. Public Domain This article incorporates text from this source, which is in the public domain.
  11. ^ Sasaki (July 27, 1994). "Tropical Storm Gilma Discussion Twenty-Six". Central Pacific Hurricane Center. Retrieved January 3, 2010.
  12. ^ Farrell (July 28, 1994). "Tropical Storm Gilma Discussion Twenty-Eight". Central Pacific Hurricane Center. Retrieved January 3, 2010.
  13. ^ a b Richard J. Pasch (January 20, 1995). "Preliminary Report Hurricane Gilma (Page 2)". National Hurricane Center. Retrieved January 3, 2010.
  14. ^ "61st Interdepertmental Hurricane Conference" (PDF). Office of the Federal Coordinator for Meteorology. March 2007. p. 115. Archived from the original (PDF) on March 3, 2009. Retrieved August 28, 2008.
  15. ^ "Fact Sheet Tropical Cyclone Names" (PDF). World Meteorological Organization. July 1, 2005. p. 4. Retrieved August 26, 2008.
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