The 1989 Pacific hurricane season was a near normal season. It officially started on May 15, 1989, in the eastern Pacific, and on June 1, 1989, in the central Pacific, and lasted until November 30, 1989. These dates conventionally delimit the period of each year when most tropical cyclones form in the northeastern Pacific Ocean.[1] A total of 18 storms and 9 hurricanes formed, which was near long-term averages. Four hurricanes reached major hurricane status (Category3 or higher) on the Saffir–Simpson scale.
Land impacting storms include Hurricanes Cosme, Kiko, and Raymond. Cosme crossed over Mexico and killed 30 people. Hurricane Kiko made landfall on the Gulf of California side of the Baja California Peninsula as a major hurricane. Hurricane Raymond was the strongest storm of the season, but weakened significantly before landfall.
Seasonal summary
Overall, the season continued the general trend in the 1980s of near to above-average seasons in the East Pacific.[2] Seventeen cyclones formed. Eight peaked at tropical storm strength. Nine systems became hurricanes, of which four were major hurricanes at Category3 intensity or higher on the Saffir–Simpson scale. On August 28, three systems were active, one of a few times when there has been three tropical cyclones active simultaneously (Kiko, Lorena, and Manuel) in the east Pacific (west of 140°W).[3] Despite the activity this season, no named storms formed in October. This was the second consecutive season this happened.[2]
During the second week of January, an upper-level trough located east of Hawaii created an area of divergence to its southeast, allowing an area of low pressure to develop alongside deep convection. Initially, the system was hampered by wind shear as it moved west-northwestward to the south of Hawaii; however, by January11, the system was able to maintain convection over its center and was classified as a tropical depression. During post-storm analysis it was determined that the system became a tropical storm late on January13. Its strengthening took place north of 20°N, a very unusual latitude for tropical cyclogenesis to occur in January. Meteorologists at the time struggled to forecast the storm as climatological forecast guidance (modeling based on previous cyclones), was not available due to the uniqueness of the storm. On January15, the system crossed the International Date Line and entered the Western Pacific basin.[4][5]
As a tropical depression, the storm brought heavy rains to portions of Hawaii, triggering flash flooding on a few islands. No damage resulted from the floods. After becoming a tropical storm, the system brushed Wake Island, bringing gusty winds and moderate rainfall. Several days later, the storm passed near the Mariana Islands and Guam, bringing tropical storm-force wind gusts and heavy rainfall. Minor damage resulted from Winona but there was no loss of life. Operationally, this system was not classified a tropical storm until January 16, when it was given the name Winona; thus it was not warned upon by the Central Pacific Hurricane Center during its early stages.[4]
The first storm of the season developed out of a weak area of low pressure situated about 570mi (925km) south-southwest of Acapulco, Mexico. Tracking towards the west, the circulation briefly dissipated on May 30, before redeveloping the following day into Tropical Depression One-E.[6] A ridge of high pressure north of the system steered it towards the west-northwest.[7] By 0600UTC on June 1, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) upgraded the depression to a tropical storm and gave it the name Adolph.[6] Adolph continued to strengthen until early on June 2, at which time it reached its peak intensity with winds of 65mph (100km/h) and a minimum pressure of 994mbar (hPa).[6] Shortly after peaking, cool, dry air became entrained in the circulation, preventing further intensification.[8] Early on June 3, Adolph weakened slightly due to unfavorable conditions.[6][9] Later that day, Adolph briefly re-intensified.[9] On June 4, strong wind shear displaced convection associated with the storm to the west of the center of circulation; this resulted in Adolph weakening to a tropical depression by 1800UTC that day, and Adolph persisted until June 5 at which time it dissipated.[6]
On June 10, an area of disturbed weather was located several hundred miles southwest of Acapulco, Mexico, and the system slowed to a westward drift. After gradually becoming better organized, the NHC estimated that the wave spawned Tropical Depression Two-E around 1800UTC on June 15.[10] Initially, the depression towards the northwest before a ridge of high pressure situated over Mexico caused the storm to turn towards the west-northwest.[11] Based on improving satellite presentation, the NHC upgraded the depression to Tropical Storm Barbara.[10] With favorable conditions, Barbara continued to intensify, attaining hurricane-status roughly 24hours after being named.[10] Six hours later, the storm reached its peak intensity with winds of 80mph (130km/h).[12] Satellite images early on June 18 showed that cool, dry air was becoming entrained into the northern inflow of the storm and Barbara was nearing cooler waters. These factors led to the storm weakening below hurricane intensity by 0000UTC on June 19. Wind shear at this time also began to increase, displacing all convection associated with the storm to the northeast of the center. By June 20, the former hurricane was further downgraded to a tropical depression. The NHC issued their final advisory on the system early on June 21; however, the remnants of the storm persisted until June 27.[10]
On June 18 a tropical disturbance formed several hundred miles off the coast of Mexico. Ships in the vicinity of the storm, in addition to satellite images, indicated that the disturbance had developed[13] into Tropical Depression Three-E around 1800UTC. Remaining nearly stationary, the depression gradually strengthened into a tropical storm by June 20, receiving the name Cosme at that time. Early on June 21, Cosme began to track towards the north and intensify.[13][14] Around 1200UTC, Cosme strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane on the Saffir–Simpson scale.[15] Several hours later, Cosme reached its peak intensity.[13] Late on June 21, the center of the hurricane made landfall on the Mexican coast, just east of Acapulco with winds of 80mph (130km/h).[15] The low associated with the former hurricane was last identified near Brownsville, Texas.[13]
Cosme brought heavy rains, which killed at least 30people due to drowning.[13] Many adobe homes were destroyed, but a specific cost of damage is not known. The highest rainfall recorded in relation to Cosme was 16.1in (410mm) in Yautepec San Bartolo, Mexico.[13]
Tropical Depression Four-E
Tropical depression(SSHWS)
Duration
July 9– July 14
Peak intensity
35mph (55km/h) (1-min);
The fourth tropical cyclone of the season formed as a well-organized depression on July 9. Deep convection associated with the system indicated that intensification into a tropical storm was possible.[16] The system track generally westward in response to high-pressure system to the north.[17] On July 10, the depression quickly became disorganized, with only a small area of convection around the center remaining by midday.[18] Although the depression was nearly at tropical storm intensity, the NHC held off on upgrading it due to its proximity to Tropical Depression Five-E.[19] However, the system failed to intensify.[20] By July 11, the depression entered the Central Pacific hurricane center's area of responsibility. Tracking generally northwest, the system slowly weakened before dissipating on July 14 to the south of Hawaii.[21]
Tropical Depression Five-E
Tropical depression(SSHWS)
Duration
July 10– July 16
Peak intensity
35mph (55km/h) (1-min);
On July 10, a tropical depression formed far from land. Upon formation, there was uncertainty of the location of center.[22] Shortly thereafter, the system became sheared and further intensification was no longer anticipated.[23] On July 11, the low-level center became displaced form the deep convection.[24] the next day, the center was relocated, and moved to the west. While the NHC noted the possibility of intensification, the depression was forecasted to dissipate in 36 hours.[25] It failed to intensify,[20] and moved into the Central Pacific on July 14. The fast-moving tropical depression dissipated two days later. The remnants of the depression passed far to the south of Hawaii, thus there was no damage.[21]
On July 9, a defined low-pressure system formed south of Baja California and increased convective activity led to the NHC classifying it Tropical Depression Six-E on July 11. About 24hours later, the depression intensified into Tropical Storm Dalilia.[26] By July 13, Dalilia had intensified into a minimal hurricane as it tracked generally toward the northwest. Two days later, the storm took a nearly due west track, which it maintained until July 19.[26] Although the storm tracked near cool waters, a well-developed outflow allowed it to maintain hurricane-intensity.[27] Shortly before crossing into the Central Pacific basin, the storm reached its peak intensity with winds of 90mph (150km/h) and a central pressure of 977 mbar (hPa; 28.85inHg).[26] After crossing 140°W, Dalilia weakened to a minimal hurricane. The storm maintained this intensity until July 19, at which time the system slowed and turned northwest. The following day, the weakening tropical storm brushed the Hawaiian Islands to the south, eventually curving away from the island chain on July 21. Later that day, Dalilia further weakened to a tropical depression, with the Central Pacific Hurricane Center issuing their final advisory at that time. The remnants of the former hurricane continued to track northwest.[21]
While tracking near the Hawaiian islands, Dalilia produced waves up to 20ft (6.1m) along south-facing coastlines. Along the coasts of Ka'u and South Kona, winds gusted up to 45mph (75km/h); the winds caused minor damage Along the southeast slopes of Mauna Loa, heavy rains caused minor flooding which forced transit officials to shut down several roads. Localized areas received rainfall in excess of 10in (250mm).[21]
Tropical Depression Seven-E
Tropical depression(SSHWS)
Duration
July 16– July 18
Peak intensity
35mph (55km/h) (1-min);
On July 16, an area of disturbed weather located 900mi (1,400km) organized into a tropical depression. Upon formation, the NHC did not anticipate significant intensification due to it close distance to both cooler waters and Hurricane Dalilia.[28] The next day, however, the center became difficult to locate and the system was no longer forecast to intensity.[29] By the night, only minimal deep convection remained. The depression soon moved into cold water and as such the system was expected to dissipate within 24 hours.[30] It dissipated the next day.[20] The remnants of this system contributed to a surge in the monsoon trough that led to the formation of Tropical Storm Erick.[31] This system never impacted land, and thus no damage or deaths were reported.
On July 16, there was a surge in convection in the monsoon trough. The most concentrated area soon separated for the trough and by July19, satellite imagery indicated an area of deep convection that was located nearly 1,237mi (1,991km) away from Mexico. Early that day, the system was upgraded to a tropical depression. Upon becoming a tropical cyclone, only slight intensification was anticipated.[32] The system intensified to a tropical storm 24 hours after forming. Erick soon moved into cooler waters. This quickly weakened the cyclone and was downgraded to a tropical depression on July 20. It dissipated the next day, without ever impacting any land masses.[31]
Flossie originated from a tropical wave that entered the Pacific Ocean on July 20. The system began to show signs of organization two days later. Continuing to organize, the system was upgraded Tropical Depression Nine-E on July 23.[33] Despite being located over warm waters, only gradual intensification was anticipated.[34] It strengthened into Tropical Storm Flossie the next day.[33] Shortly thereafter the upgraded, convection began to diminish.[35] The cyclone then drifted northwest. The upper-level environment rapidly changed, and the cyclones convection became disorganized. The convection separated from the center of circulation. The cluster of convection developed a new center of circulation on July 24. The original center drifted away from Flossie for 12 hours before dissipating. The new center, which was still a tropical storm, drifted northwest. Flossie then encountered an unfavorable environment, and weakened into a depression on July 25. Flossie continued drifting to the northwest until dissipating July 28, while just off the coast of the Baja California Peninsula.[33] Despite its close distance to Mexico, no damage or deaths were reported.
Gil formed from an area of disturbed weather located near the Mexico–Guatemala border developed a circulation in the Gulf of Tehuantepec and then dissipated. On July 30, the disturbance redeveloped a circulation and then convection. It paralleled the coast of Mexico and headed in a northwesterly direction.[36] The low continued to organize, and was upgraded into a tropical depression. Initially, there was some uncertain in the storms future path, and there was a possibility of the system recurving towards the coast.[37] It strengthened into a tropical storm on July 31.[36] The system continued to become better organized, with further intensification foretasted because the low was located over very warm waters;[38] and was upgraded into a hurricane that same day. Shortly thereafter, the cyclone developed an eye.[39] Gil was a hurricane for only about 30hours,[36] and it began to encounter dry air.[40] By the August 1, Gil had lost hurricane intensity. It was downgraded to a tropical depression the next day. The cyclone dissipated on August 5.[36]
The outer bands of Gil produced significant amounts of rainfall over coastal areas of Mexico, with satellites estimating areas of rainfall in excess of 5in (130mm). The heavy rains may have triggered deadly flooding and landslides; however, no reports from Mexican officials have been received to confirm this. However, officials reported 4.8in (120mm) of rain in a 12-hour period.[36]
A tropical wave crossed Central America on August 11, and then became an area of low pressure. While located of the coast of Mexico it became better organized on August 14. This was enough to warrant an upgrade to Tropical Depression Eleven-E.[41] This system slowly became better organized, but northerly wind shear prevent rapid intensification.[42] Initially, this system was slow to intensify.[43] After strengthening into Tropical Storm Ismael, it closely paralleled the coast of Mexico, Ismael turned to the west. It would maintain that generally westerly direction for the rest of its long path across the Pacific Ocean. The system steadily intensified,[44] and by August 16, Ismael had developed a fair outflow.[45] It reached hurricane strength later that day.[44] Continuing to intensify, the hurricane reached Category 2 intensity. However, the system was not expect to intensify further due to cool sea surface temperatures.[46] However, Ismael managed reached Category3 status. It then reached a peak intensity of 120mph (195km/h) and a peak pressure of 955 millibars. Shortly after its peak, Ismael underwent fluctuations in strength. On August 21, Ismael passed over cooler waters. In addition, the storm encountered strong wind shear. The hostile environment continued to take its toll on Ismael, and it weakened to a tropical storm on August 23. Ismael dissipated not long after weakening to a depression on August 25. The remains of Ismael, which was only a swirl of clouds, dissipated near Hawaii.[44]
Between August 15 and 17, the outer bands of Ismael produced heavy rains along coastal areas of Mexico between Acapulco and Manzanillo, Colima.[44] At least three people were killed by flooding triggered by the storm;[47] however, no structural damage was reported.[48] Despite the rainfall, there were no reports of flooding. The remnants of the hurricane passed near Hawaii, but did not pose a threat.[44]
On August 12, a tropical wave formed in the Pacific Ocean. it steadily organized into the twelfth tropical depression of the season early on August 14. It slowly strengthened and was named Henriette after strengthening into a tropical storm. After peaking with winds of 50mph (85km/h) and a peak pressure of 1,000mbar (30inHg) on August 15, wind shear immediately began to weaken the tropical cyclone. On August 16, after becoming devoid of any convection, it was downgraded into tropical depression status on August 16.[49] Henriette degenerated into a remnant low on August 17. The low persisted for a few more days until completely dissipating.[50]
A surge in convection in the monsoon trough caused by nearby Hurricane Ismael interacted with a tropical wave to form the thirteenth tropical depression of the season on August 21. Due to the small distance of 621 miles (999km) between the cyclones, the depression followed Ismael. Despite strong wind shear caused by Ismael, the depression strengthened into Tropical Storm Juliette on August 22 as a strong burst of convection occurred.[51] After Ismael dissipated, steering currents collapsed, and Juliette moved over cool waters in the open ocean for several days.[52] In addition, strong wind shear took toll on the system.[53] The low had completely dissipated during the evening of August 25.[52] Juliette never impacted land.
On August 25, the seasons fourteenth tropical depression formed off the coast of Sonora, Mexico from a mesoscale convective system. A small cyclone, the system rapidly intensified over the warm waters of the Gulf of California, becoming Tropical Storm Kiko hours after forming and a hurricane 12 hours later. The fast rate of strengthening continued until August 27, at which time Kiko peaked in intensity as a strong Category 3 hurricane with winds of 120mph (195km/h) and a minimum pressure of 955mbar (hPa; 28.2inHg). Slight weakening occurred before the storm made landfall near Punta Arena, Mexico,[54] becoming one of the strongest storms to make landfall in Mexico since reliable records began in 1949.[3] The hurricane quickly weakened as it moved over the Baja Peninsula, being downgraded to a tropical depression before emerging into the Pacific Ocean on August 28. The following day, the remnants of Kiko were absorbed by the nearby Hurricane Lorena.[54]
Although Kiko was a major hurricane upon landfall, little damage resulted from the storm. However, 20 homes were destroyed and numerous highways were flooded by torrential rains.[55][56]
In the Atlantic, a tropical wave spawned Tropical Depression Six. Twenty four hours later, wind shear degenerated the depression back into a wave. The wave continued westward, and in the southern Caribbean, split in two on August 21. The southern part crossed Central America and emerged into the Pacific Ocean. Banding and convection steadily organized, and Tropical Depression Fifteen-E formed on August 27. It strengthened into Tropical Storm Lorena the next day. At this time, three systems were active and in close proximity. Lorena and a weakening Kiko started a Fujiwhara interaction. Lorena eventually became the dominant system, and absorbed the remnants of Kiko on August 29. Moving slowly out to sea, Lorena reached minimal hurricane strength on the September 1 as the convection became more concentrated.[57] Lorena was a hurricane for less than a day. It weakened quickly to a depression on September 3. The cyclone was devoid of convection by September 7, and was thus declared a remnant low.[58] The system never affected land.
An area of thunderstorms organized into a tropical depression on August 28.[59] The next day, convection increased near the center, and was respectively upgraded into a tropical storm.[60] Manuel gradually strengthened, reaching a peak of 45mph (75km/h). Manuel approached to within 578mi (930km) of Lorena. Due to its proximity to the storm, Manuel lost its center circulation on August 31. The storms only impact on land was light rainfall near Manzanillo, Colima. No reports of death or damage were reported.[59]
On September 2, a tropical wave began showing signs of organization, and on September 3, it organized into a tropical depression.[61] Upon becoming a tropical cyclone, Narda was located over warm sea surface temperatures.[62] Moving rapidly, to the west-northwest, Narda strengthened into a tropical storm. Strong wind shear prevented significant intensification beyond minimal tropical storm strength, with winds peaking at 50mph (75km/h). Initially, Narda managed to produce brief burst of convection. By September 7, however, Narda was devoid of convection, and was respectively downgraded to a tropical depression.[61] It never impacted land.
A tropical wave left the west coast of Africa on August 21. Moving westward, the wave briefly developed into Tropical Depression Nine on August 27, only to degenerate back to a tropical wave a day later due to strong wind shear. The wave later crossed Central America into the eastern Pacific on September 3. After remaining stationary for several days, the system developed into Tropical Depression 18-E on September 8 about 400mi (640km) south of the Mexican coastline, after its convection became well-organized. The system tracked northwestward, steered by an anticyclone over Mexico and a trough to the west. The depression intensified into Tropical Storm Octave on September10, by which time wind shear had decreased. The storm later developed outflow and eventually an eye, signaling that Octave attained hurricane status late on September11.[63][64][65][66] During the afternoon of September 13, Octave intensified into a major hurricane, and early the next day it reached a peak intensity of 135mph (215km/h), making it a Category4 hurricane, based on estimates from the Dvorak technique. Around its peak, Octave had a minimum pressure of 948mbar (28.0inHg). Soon thereafter, the hurricane encountered cooler water temperatures, which caused a steady weakening trend.[67][68] By September14, Octave weakened to tropical storm status, and the next day it was downgraded to a tropical depression. After turning back towards the east, Octave rapidly dissipated on September 16 as steering current diminished.[64][67]
Octave came within 200mi (320km) of Mexico's Socorro Island, which recorded winds of 35mph (56km/h).[64] Moisture from the storm spread into southern California.[69] In the Sacramento Valley, the city of Redding recorded 2.21in (56mm) of rain in a 12-hour span and 3.15in (80mm) in 24 hours.[70][71]Sacramento also recorded 1.56in (40mm) in 6 hours.[70] Light rainfall was reported throughout southern California, with enough falling in Los Angeles to make streets slippery.[72] Moisture associated with Octave produced isolated showers in thunderstorms in parts of southern Arizona on September 16.[73] In addition, a power outage in Lodi, California affected 7,000 customers.[74] Octave also produced minor damage to the grape and raisin crops.[69]
Tropical Depression Nineteen-E organized from an area of low pressure on September 21.[75] Upon being upgraded, the depression was anticipated to slowly strengthen, becoming a strong tropical storm in three days.[76] Moving northwestward, it was named Priscilla the next day. Continuing to intensify, it reached its peak intensity of 65mph (100km/h). Due to its close proximity to the cooler waters, Priscilla began weakening almost immediately thereafter. The cyclone weakened into a tropical depression on September 24 and dissipated the next day .[75]
Although Priscilla did not directly impact land as a tropical cyclone, the remnant moisture enhanced a non-tropical low off the California coastline, resulting in heavy rainfall along the Pacific coast of the United States.[77] In southern California, the system also resulted in hot and humid weather, with some areas reaching up to 108°F (42°C).[78]
Tropical Depression Twenty-E
Tropical depression(SSHWS)
Duration
September 25– September 27
Peak intensity
35mph (55km/h) (1-min);
On September 24, Tropical Depression Twenty-E formed southwest of Guatemala.[20] Although convection increased, significant development was not anticipated due to its proximity to land. It was also forecasted to make landfall in 36 hours.[79] A small cyclone,[80] its close distance to Hurricane Raymond hindered development.[81] Moving very little, the winds soon diminished. The depression dissipated on September 27.[20] When the depression was anticipated to make landfall in Mexico. As such, the NHC noted the possibility of heavy rains especially over the higher elevations.[80] However, no impact was reported from the tropical cyclone.
Tropical Depression Twenty One-E formed from part of the same tropical wave that had earlier spawned Hurricane Hugo. Moving slowly to the west-northwest, it accelerated to the northwest in response to a trough and strengthened into the seventeenth named storm of the season on September 26. Raymond turned to the west again and entered a favourable environment. Raymond eventually peaked as a Category4 hurricane and the strongest storm of the season on October 1. A trough over Mexico destroyed the ridge that was steering Raymond and recurved the cyclone to the northeast. The hurricane accelerated into a less favorable environment, and slowly weakened as its forward speed increased to 23mph (37km/h). Raymond made landfall as a tropical storm on October 4. Northern Mexico's mountains disrupted Raymond's circulation, and dissipated over New Mexico on October 5 after passing over that state and Arizona as a depression.[82]
Since Raymond had significantly weakened prior to its first landfall, only minor impacts were recorded in Mexico. The highest rainfall was recorded in Nogales at 4.72in (120mm).[83] In the city, the swollen Santa Cruz River destroyed a heavily traveled bridge, known as the Calle Obregon, and destroyed a store which was situated on the banks of the river. Mexican officials estimated damages at $250,000 (1989 USD, $614,4972024USD).[84] The remnants of the storm tracked into the Southwest United States and further into the Central United States before dissipating. Rainfall in excess of 3in (76mm) fell in parts of southern Arizona; the highest total was recorded in Independence, Kansas, at 3.91in (99mm).[85] One person was killed in a mobile home which was destroyed by high winds.[86] Flash flooding triggered by Raymond caused an estimated $1.5million (1989 USD, $3.69million2024USD) in damages in Arizona.[83]
Tropical Depression Twenty Two-E
Tropical depression(SSHWS)
Duration
October 3– October 8
Peak intensity
35mph (55km/h) (1-min);
On October 3, a tropical depression formed 475mi (764km) south of Mexico from an area of disturbed weather that had become better organized. Upon becoming a tropical cyclone, the cyclone was located in a favorable environment. As such, it was forecasted to reach a peak intensity of 70mph (110km/h) to be named "Sonia".[87] Later that day, convection increased, but the NHC did not upgrade the system into a tropical storm.[88] However, increased wind shear quickly caused the system to become exposed.[89] After drifting westbound, it did not become a tropical storm and dissipated on October 4.[20] However, it regenerated on October 7 as deep convection had developed near the center for about 12 hours. Upon regenerating, it was forecasted to intensify into a strong tropical storm as it was expected to turn to the north.[90] Shortly thereafter, the system became less organized;[91] it dissipated again the next day.[20] The depression never threatened land.
Tropical Depression Twenty Three-E
Tropical depression(SSHWS)
Duration
October 15– October 17
Peak intensity
35mph (55km/h) (1-min);
On October 15, Tropical Depression 23E developed about 550mi (890km) to the southwest of Mexico City, within an area of warm water and diminishing wind shear and as a result was expected to slowly intensify further.[92][93] However, during October 16, all of the deep convection associated with 23E dissipated, before the National Hurricane Center issued its final advisory during the next day.[94]
Tropical Depression Twenty Four-E
Tropical depression(SSHWS)
Duration
October 18– October 19
Peak intensity
35mph (55km/h) (1-min);
On October 18, the NHC began issuing advisories on Tropical Depression Twenty Four-E. Although the depression was located within an area of high wind shear, convection had managed to partially develop around the center of circulation. A ship nearby the system reported sustained winds of 40mph (65km/h); however, the winds were not considered to be representative of the actual intensity of the depression. Further intensification was not expected as the depression tracked in a northward direction[95] Shortly after the first advisory was issued, convection rapidly dissipated, leaving an exposed low-pressure area, devoid of shower and thunderstorm activity. The system was forecast to dissipate within 36hours due to high shear.[96] Late on October 18, the forward motion of the depression abruptly changed towards the west.[97] The final advisory on Tropical Depression Twenty Four-E was issued during the afternoon of October 19 as the system remained devoid of convection; redevelopment of the system was not anticipated due to unfavorable conditions.[98]
Storm names
The following list of names was used for named storms that formed in the North Pacific Ocean east of 140°W in 1989.[99] This is essentially the same list used for the 1983 season, though the rotating lists went only to the "W" name at the time.[100] It would be used next, with two modifications, for the 1995 season. No names were retired from the list following the 1989 season, but Winnie was later interchanged with Wallis, and, Dalilia was respelled as "Dalila" for 1995.[101][102]
For storms that form in the North Pacific from 140°W to the International Date Line, the names come from a series of four rotating lists. Names are used one after the other without regard to year, and when the bottom of one list is reached, the next named storm receives the name at the top of the next list.[99] One storm, later named Winona, formed in the Central Pacific basin in 1989; it was operationally named after crossing into the Western Pacific by the Joint Typhoon Warning Center.[4] Named storms in the table above that crossed into the area during the year are noted (*).[21]
Season effects
This is a table of all of the tropical cyclones that formed in the 1989 Pacific hurricane season. It includes their name, duration (within the basin), peak classification and intensities, areas affected, damage, and death totals. Deaths in parentheses are additional and indirect (an example of an indirect death would be a traffic accident), but were still related to that storm. Damage and deaths include totals while the storm was extratropical, a wave, or a low, and all of the damage figures are in 1989 USD.
The 2002 Pacific hurricane season was a near–average season which produced fifteen named storms. Eight hurricanes formed, including a record-equaling three Category 5 hurricanes, a record it shares with the 1994 and 2018 seasons. It was also a near-average season in terms of accumulated cyclone energy (ACE), having an ACE of 125. The season officially began on May 15, 2002 in the East Pacific Ocean, and on June 1, 2002 in the Central Pacific; both ended on November 30. These dates conventionally delimit the period of each year when most tropical cyclone formation occurs in these regions of the Pacific. The first system of the 2002 season, Hurricane Alma, formed on May 24, and the last, Tropical Depression Sixteen-E, dissipated on November 16.
The 2001 Pacific hurricane season was a relatively near-average Pacific hurricane season which produced sixteen named storms, though most were rather weak and short-lived including one unnamed tropical storm which was operationally recognized as a tropical depression, the first such occurrence since 1996. Only eight hurricanes formed and two major hurricanes. The season officially began on May 15 in the East Pacific Ocean, and on June 1 in the Central Pacific; they ended on November 30. These dates conventionally delimit the period of each year when most tropical cyclones form in the Pacific basin. However, the formation of tropical cyclones is possible at any time of the year.
The 2000 Pacific hurricane season was an above-average Pacific hurricane season, although most of the storms were weak and short-lived. There were few notable storms this year. Tropical storms Miriam, Norman, and Rosa all made landfall in Mexico with minimal impact. Hurricane Daniel briefly threatened the U.S. state of Hawaii while weakening. Hurricane Carlotta was the strongest storm of the year and the second-strongest June hurricane in recorded history. Carlotta killed 18 people when it sank a freighter. Overall, the season was significantly more active than the previous season, with 19 tropical storms. In addition, six hurricanes developed. Furthermore, there were total of two major hurricanes.
The 1998 Pacific hurricane season was a fairly average Pacific hurricane season. Despite this, it had nine hurricanes and six major hurricanes, which was well above average. 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 that region. The first tropical cyclone developed on June 11, 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 Hurricane Center's warning zone was low, with just one tropical depression observed in the region. Two tropical cyclones from the eastern Pacific also entered the central Pacific; the former did so as a hurricane.
The 1997 Pacific hurricane season was a very active hurricane season. With hundreds of deaths and hundreds of millions of dollars in damage, this was one of the deadliest and costliest Pacific hurricane seasons on record. This was due to the exceptionally strong 1997–98 El Niño event. The season officially started on May 15, in the eastern Pacific, and on June 1, in the central Pacific, and lasted until November 30. These dates conventionally delimit the period of each year when almost all tropical cyclones form in the northeastern Pacific Ocean.
The 1996 Pacific hurricane season had below normal tropical cyclone activity, producing 9 tropical storms, of which 5 became hurricanes, with 2 of those intensifying into major hurricanes. With an Accumulated cyclone energy (ACE) index of 53.9, the season ranks among the least intense Pacific hurricane seasons on record. It officially began May 15, 1996, in the eastern north Pacific and on June 1, 1996, in the central north Pacific. It ended on November 30, 1996. These dates conventionally delimit the period of each year when most tropical cyclones form in the northeastern Pacific Ocean. The season slightly exceeded these bounds when tropical storm One-E formed on May 13.
The 1995 Pacific hurricane season was the least active Pacific hurricane season since 1979, and marked the beginning of a multi-decade period of low activity in the basin. Of the eleven tropical cyclones that formed during the season, four affected land, with the most notable storm of the season being Hurricane Ismael, which killed at least 116 people in Mexico. The strongest hurricane in the season was Hurricane Juliette, which reached peak winds of 150 mph (240 km/h), but did not significantly affect land. Hurricane Adolph was an early-season Category 4 hurricane. Hurricane Henriette brushed the Baja California Peninsula in early September.
The 1994 Pacific hurricane season was the final season of the eastern north Pacific's consecutive active hurricane seasons that started in 1982. The season officially started on May 15, 1994, in the eastern Pacific, and on June 1, 1994, in the central Pacific, and lasted until November 30, 1994. These dates conventionally delimit the period of each year when most tropical cyclones form in the northeastern Pacific Ocean. The first tropical cyclone formed on June 18, while the last system dissipated on October 26. This season, twenty-two tropical cyclones formed in the north Pacific Ocean east of the dateline, with all but two becoming tropical storms or hurricanes. A total of 10 hurricanes occurred, including five major hurricanes. The above average activity in 1994 was attributed to the formation of the 1994–95 El Niño.
The 1993 Pacific hurricane season included more than double the average number of major hurricanes – Category 3 or stronger cyclones on the Saffir–Simpson scale. This activity was the result of an El Niño event, which is the main factor contributing to above-average activity across the Pacific basin. The season featured 15 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and 9 major hurricanes. While the number of named storms was near the long-term average, the number of hurricanes was above the average of 8, and the number of major hurricanes far exceeded the long-term average of 4. Seasonal activity began on May 17 and ended on November 8, within the confines of a traditional hurricane season which begins on May 15 in the East Pacific and June 1 in the Central Pacific. The season ends on November 30 in both basins. These dates conventionally delimit the period during each year when most tropical cyclones form.
The 1992 Pacific hurricane season is the most active Pacific hurricane season on record, featuring 27 named storms. The season also produced the second-highest ACE value on record in the basin, only surpassed by the 2018 season. The 1992 season officially started on May 15 in the eastern Pacific, and on June 1 in the central Pacific, and lasted until November 30. These dates conventionally delimit the period of each year when most tropical cyclones form in the northeastern Pacific Ocean. However, tropical cyclogenesis is possible at any time of the year, as demonstrated by the development of Hurricane Ekeka on January 28, and Tropical Storm Hali two months later.
The 1991 Pacific hurricane season was a near-average Pacific hurricane season. The worst storm this year was Tropical Storm Ignacio, which killed 23 people in Mexico and injured 40 others. Elsewhere, Hurricane Fefa caused flooding in Hawaii. Hurricane Kevin was the strongest system of the season and became the then longest-lasting hurricane in the eastern north Pacific basin at the time, and Hurricane Nora was the strongest November storm to that point. The season officially started on May 15, 1991, in the eastern Pacific, and on June 1, 1991, in the central Pacific. It lasted until November 30, 1991, in both basins. These dates conventionally delimit the period of each year when most tropical cyclones form in the northeastern Pacific Ocean.
The 1990 Pacific hurricane season was a very active season which observed 21 named storms within the basin. The season also produced the fourth highest ACE index value on record. The season was officially started on May 15 in the eastern Pacific, and on June 1 in the central Pacific, and lasted until November 30. These dates conventionally delimit the period of each year when most tropical cyclones form in the northeastern Pacific Ocean. However, the formation of tropical cyclones is possible at any time of the year, as illustrated in 1990 by the formation of the season's first named storm, Hurricane Alma, on May 12. At the time, this was the earliest formation of a tropical storm on record in the eastern Pacific
The 1988 Pacific hurricane season was the least active Pacific hurricane season since 1981. It officially began May 15, in the eastern Pacific, and June 1, in the central Pacific and lasted until November 30. These dates conventionally delimit the period of each year when most tropical cyclones form in the northeastern Pacific Ocean. The first named storm, Tropical Storm Aletta, formed on June 16, and the last-named storm, Tropical Storm Miriam, was previously named Hurricane Joan in the Atlantic Ocean before crossing Central America and re-emerging in the eastern Pacific; Miriam continued westward and dissipated on November 2.
The 1983 Pacific hurricane season was the longest season ever recorded at that time. It was a very active Pacific hurricane season. The season started on May 15, 1983 in the eastern Pacific, and on June 1, 1983 in the central Pacific, and lasted until November 30, 1983. These dates conventionally delimit the period of each year when most tropical cyclones form in the northeastern Pacific Ocean. During the 1983 season, there were 20 named storms, which was slightly less than the previous season. Furthermore, twelve of those storms became hurricanes. And eight of the storms reached major hurricane status, or Category 3 or higher on the Saffir–Simpson hurricane wind scale (SSHWS). The decaying 1982–83 El Niño event likely contributed to this level of activity. That same El Niño influenced a very quiet Atlantic hurricane season.
The 2007 Pacific hurricane season was a well below-average Pacific hurricane season, featuring only one major hurricane. 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 region. The first tropical cyclone of the season, Alvin, developed on May 27, while the final system of the year, Kiko, dissipated on October 23. Due to unusually strong wind shear, activity fell short of the long-term average, with a total of 11 named storms, 4 hurricanes, and 1 major hurricane. At the time, 2007 featured the second-lowest value of the Accumulated cyclone energy (ACE) index since reliable records began in 1971. Two tropical cyclones – Cosme and Flossie – crossed into the central Pacific basin during the year, activity below the average of 4 to 5 systems.
The 2011 Pacific hurricane season was a below average season in terms of named storms, although it had an above average number of hurricanes and major hurricanes. During the season, 13 tropical depressions formed along with 11 tropical storms, 10 hurricanes and 6 major hurricanes. The season officially began on May 15 in the East Pacific Ocean, and on June 1 in the Central Pacific; they both ended on November 30. These dates conventionally delimit the period of each year when most tropical cyclones form in the Pacific basin. The season's first cyclone, Hurricane Adrian formed on June 7, and the last, Hurricane Kenneth, dissipated on November 25.
The 2012 Pacific hurricane season was a moderately active Pacific hurricane season that saw an unusually high number of tropical cyclones pass west of the Baja California Peninsula. The season officially began on May 15 in the eastern Pacific Ocean, and on June 1 in the central Pacific (from 140°W to the International Date Line, north of the equator; they both ended on November 30. These dates conventionally delimit the period of each year when most tropical cyclones form in these regions of the Pacific Ocean. However, the formation of tropical cyclones is possible at any time of the year. This season's first system, Tropical Storm Aletta, formed on May 14, and the last, Tropical Storm Rosa, dissipated on November 3.
Hurricane Gilma was one of the most intense Pacific hurricanes 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 2019 Pacific hurricane season was an above average season which produced nineteen named storms, most of which were rather weak and short-lived. Only seven hurricanes formed, the fewest since 2010. The season officially began on May 15 in the East Pacific Ocean, and on June 1 in the Central Pacific; they both ended on November 30. These dates conventionally delimit the period of each year when most tropical cyclones form in the Pacific basin. This season was one of the latest-starting Pacific hurricane seasons on record, with the first tropical cyclone, Hurricane Alvin, forming on June 25. The final system, Tropical Depression Twenty-One-E, dissipated on November 18.
Hurricane Ismael was a strong tropical cyclone that resulted in heavy rains and flash floods across portions of Mexico during mid-August 1989. The ninth named storm, fifth hurricane and the first major hurricane of the very active 1989 Pacific hurricane season, Ismael formed from a tropical wave that traversed Central America on August 11.
↑ Staff Writer (August 28, 1989). "Hurricane Kiko Weakens". The Washington Post. Archived from the original on October 25, 2012. Retrieved May 24, 2009.
↑ Mayfield, Max B; National Hurricane Center (October 15, 1989). "Tropical Depression Twenty Three-E Marine Advisory One". United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Weather Service. Retrieved June 9, 2012.
↑ Mayfield, Max B; National Hurricane Center (October 15, 1989). "Tropical Depression Twenty Three-E Discussion One". United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Weather Service. Retrieved June 9, 2012.
↑ Clark, Gilbert C; National Hurricane Center (October 16, 1989). "Tropical Depression Twenty Three-E Discussion 6". United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Weather Service. Retrieved June 9, 2012.
1 2 National Hurricane Operations Plan(PDF) (Report). Washington, D.C.: NOAA Office of the Federal Coordinator for Meteorological Services and Supporting Research. April 1989. pp.3-8–9. Retrieved January 13, 2024.
↑ National Hurricane Operations Plan(PDF) (Report). Washington, D.C.: NOAA Office of the Federal Coordinator for Meteorological Services and Supporting Research. May 1983. p.3-9. Retrieved January 13, 2024.
↑ National Hurricane Operations Plan(PDF) (Report). Washington, D.C.: NOAA Office of the Federal Coordinator for Meteorological Services and Supporting Research. May 1995. p.3-8. Retrieved February 6, 2024.
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