Formation of Subtropical Storm Patty Near the Azores

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Subtropical Storm Patty formed in the North Atlantic, expected to impact the Azores and weaken as it approaches continental Europe. The storm illustrates characteristics of both tropical and mid-latitude storms and is one of several named this season, following predictions of a hyperactive hurricane season.

Subtropical Storm Patty developed in the North Atlantic Ocean on Saturday, marking the sixteenth storm of the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season. The storm is approaching the Azores and is anticipated to diminish in strength as it moves towards continental Europe next week. Patty is predicted to bring tropical storm conditions to the Azores late Saturday and into Sunday. Although it is on a trajectory towards Spain or Portugal, forecasters expect the storm to weaken before making landfall on the continent early next week. Subtropical storms share characteristics with tropical storms, particularly in wind strength, but they usually produce less rainfall. This year’s hurricane season was forecasted to be particularly active; however, after a prolonged period of inactivity, over two-thirds of named storms have materialized since September 9. Out of these, seven have escalated to hurricane status, with three—Francine, Helene, and Milton—making landfall in the United States, while other storms like Kirk and Leslie remained at sea. Subtropical storms can be viewed as hybrid systems, receiving energy from two distinct sources. They possess tropical storm-force winds and, since 2002, have been officially named to avoid confusion during their transition into fully tropical storms or hurricanes. Unlike their tropical cyclone counterparts formed over warm waters, subtropical storms derive some energy from the clash between cold and warm air masses, resembling mid-latitude cyclones. To gain a clearer understanding, one should recognize the two primary types of storms involved: tropical cyclones, which get their energy from warm ocean waters, and mid-latitude cyclones, which arise from the interaction of air masses. Subtropical storms exhibit characteristics of both types, forming primarily over tropical or subtropical waters while also drawing energy from air mass interactions. While they can reach wind speeds of at least 39 miles per hour, their strongest winds may extend further from the storm’s center as compared to tropical storms. Mature subtropical cyclones may display a distinct, clear center with heavy rain bands radiating outward. However, they cannot achieve hurricane-force winds unless they transition fully into tropical cyclones, a process that can occur if conditions throughout their development are favorable. “Often, subtropical storms do go on and transition into fully tropical,” noted Daniel Brown, a senior specialist with the Hurricane Center. The warming of their core could allow them to strengthen into a hurricane if remote from coastal land.

Understanding subtropical storms requires knowledge of the distinct storm types from which they emerge. Tropical storms and hurricanes are summoned by warm ocean waters, while subtropical storms represent a fusion of these systems with mid-latitude influences, receiving energy from air masses that collide. The National Hurricane Center’s classifications enhance clarity in public advisories, particularly after their naming protocol was amended in 2002 to include subtropical systems. The current season reflects complex climatic patterns characterized by various storm developments, calling attention to the behavior and potential impacts of subtropical storms such as Patty.

In summary, Subtropical Storm Patty has formed in the North Atlantic and is expected to bring conditions resembling tropical storms to the Azores before weakening as it nears mainland Europe. Understanding the nature of subtropical storms as hybrid systems is crucial, as their characteristics lie between those of tropical and mid-latitude storms. As outlined, the potential for subtropical systems to transition into hurricanes depends on environmental conditions. Thus, maintaining vigilance during storm seasons, regardless of specific classifications, is imperative for affected populations.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com

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