Atlantic Tropical Systems of 1994 and 1995: A Comparison of a Quiet Season to a Near-Record-Breaking One

Richard J. Pasch National Hurricane Center, Tropical Prediction Center, NWS/NOAA, Miami, Florida

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Lixion A. Avila National Hurricane Center, Tropical Prediction Center, NWS/NOAA, Miami, Florida

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Jiann-Gwo Jiing National Hurricane Center, Tropical Prediction Center, NWS/NOAA, Miami, Florida

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Abstract

Totals of 70 and 63 tropical waves (also known as African or easterly waves) were counted in the Atlantic basin during the 1994 and 1995 hurricane seasons. These waves led to the formation of 9 of the 12 total number of tropical cyclones in 1994 and 19 of the 21 total number of tropical cyclones in 1995. Tropical waves contributed to the formation of 75% of the eastern Pacific tropical cyclones in 1994 and 73% in 1995. Upper- and lower-level prevailing wind patterns observed during the below-normal season of 1994 and the very active one of 1995 are discussed. Tropical wave characteristics between the two years are compared.

Corresponding author address: Dr. Richard J. Pasch, Tropical Prediction Center, National Hurricane Center, 11691 SW 17th St., Miami, FL 33165-2149.

Abstract

Totals of 70 and 63 tropical waves (also known as African or easterly waves) were counted in the Atlantic basin during the 1994 and 1995 hurricane seasons. These waves led to the formation of 9 of the 12 total number of tropical cyclones in 1994 and 19 of the 21 total number of tropical cyclones in 1995. Tropical waves contributed to the formation of 75% of the eastern Pacific tropical cyclones in 1994 and 73% in 1995. Upper- and lower-level prevailing wind patterns observed during the below-normal season of 1994 and the very active one of 1995 are discussed. Tropical wave characteristics between the two years are compared.

Corresponding author address: Dr. Richard J. Pasch, Tropical Prediction Center, National Hurricane Center, 11691 SW 17th St., Miami, FL 33165-2149.

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