New tropical cyclone develops near Madagascar

tropical-cyclone-could-develop-near-madagascar

The previously area of convection near Madagascar now became tropical storm system (TC 16S). According to latest report by Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC), the system is now located 19.7S 41.1E, approximately 335 nm west of Antananarivo, Madagascar. The potential for the development of a significant tropical cyclone within the next 24 hours remains high.

Numerical models indicate development is likely over the next 12-24 hours. Maximum sustained surface winds are estimated at 25 to 30 knots. Minimum sea level pressure is estimated to be near 1000 mb. Sea surface temperatures  remains favorable at 29 to 30 degrees Celsius.

The developing system captured by MODIS/Terra satellite on February 18, 2013 (Credit: LANCE/MODIS)

 

Animated infrared satellite imagery indicates a consolidating low-level circulation center (LLCC) with curved, deep convective banding over the eastern semi-circle. An SSMIS image depicts tightly-curved banding wrapping into a well-defined low-level circulation center.

Storm system forecast track (Source: JTWC)

 

Recent scatterometer imagery as well as microwave- derived winds support 25 to 30 knot winds. Upper-level analysis indicates a point source near the center with near-radial outflow enhanced by an upper-level low positioned south of Madagascar. Vertical wind shear remains moderate (20 knots) and continues to hamper convective development over the western semi-circle.

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