Memorial Day 2010

Click to View Entire Album  - American Cemetery Normandy

Over the years we have been to many military cemeteries, museums, and other sites during our cruise vacations.   One of our most memorable trips was when we visited Normandy, France during a British Isles cruise.  My father had been among the troops landing at the beaches of Normandy on D-Day. He lived through that day and many other horrific days during the war.  Many of his fellow soldiers weren't as fortunate.  He returned to Normandy years later and stood on this hallowed ground.   He wept for his Lieutenant and comrades as he found their graves.

Related Blog Posts

Thoughts on Memorial Day
Normandy, France - Retracing History
Normandy, France - Retracing History (Part2)
Normandy, France - Retracing History (Part 3)

It is fitting that there is a day set aside to honor the war dead.   However, I suggest that we should remember them, and those that lived through the war and have now returned to their heavenly homes, at other times, not just Memorial Day.   

There are many opportunities while cruising to visit graves of the fallen troops.   I've already mentioned Normandy, France.   As expected there are many sites in Europe where you can visit graves and also learn more about the wars fought on that foreign soil.

Closer to home you could visit Arlington National Cemetery, before or after a cruise that departs from Baltimore.    On he west coast, you could visit Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery when cruising out of San Diego harbor.  Remember those who lost their lives at Pearl Harbor while in Honolulu.

Plan a cruise to one or more destinations that tell the history of war.  Many cruise lines honor the active and retired military by offering special discounts.   Check with your cruise specialist for more details. 

Thank You to All the Military for Your Service

2010 Hurricane Preparedness Call to Action

Summary of 2010 Hurricane Preparedness Week

If you are HURRICANE AWARE you will be able to answer these three questions:

1. What are the Hurricane Hazards?
2. What does it mean to you?
3. What actions should you take to be prepared?

We have covered these topics in depth in this Hurricane Preparedness series.  The table below lists links to the previous blog posts as well as government websites with additional details.  For cruisers, you have one more topic to read about (below) before considering yourself Hurricane Prepared.

Looking for current & past hurricanes?  Click Image or Here

Hurricane Safety at Sea

Hurricanes have been the cause of many maritime disasters and unfortunately, there is no single rule of thumb that can be used by mariners to ensure safe separation from a hurricane at sea. Instead, constant monitoring of hurricane potential & continual risk analysis when used with some fundamental guidelines become the basic tools to minimize a hurricane's impact to vessels at sea or in port. Read More about Marine Safety.

Hurricane Preparedness Week Blog Posts

Hurricane Preparedness Resources (click links below)
Hurricane Preparedness Week 2010	NOAA's Hurricane Preparedness
Hurricane Hazards - Storm Surge	FEMA Ready America
Huricane Hazards - High Winds	FEMA Preparedness Conference
Hurricane Hazards - Inland Flooding	NOAA 2010 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook
Be Prepared for Hurricanes	NOAA 2010 Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season Outlook
Hurricane Preparedness for Cruisers	NOAA 2010 Central Pacific Hurricane Prediction
Above Average 2010 Hurricane Forecast	The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale
How Does Oil & Hurricanes Mix	Real-Time Cruise Ship Tracking

Take Action - Be Prepared

Tropical Storm Agatha Forms in Eastern Pacific

5-Day Forecast Cone for Storm Center (Credit: NOAA NHC)
Click for Current 5-Day Graphic

Not the storm you are looking for?  Click Image or Here

First Named Tropical Storm
2010 Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season

800 AM PDT SAT MAY 29 2010

...DEPRESSION STRENGTHENS INTO THE FIRST TROPICAL STORM OF THE

SEASON OFF THE COAST OF GUATEMALA...

UPDATE: 200 AM PDT SUN MAY 30 2010

...AGATHA DISSIPATES OVER THE MOUNTAINS OF WESTERN GUATEMALA...  Unfortunately not before claiming more than 163 lives

NASA Update (6/1):  Agatha Drenches Guatemala and El Salvador, Remnants Now in Caribbean


We began watching this Tropical Storm when NASA's AIRS satellite identified a low pressure area early May 27th and indicated it had the potential of forming into a tropical cyclone. (Potential for First Named Tropical Storm in Pacific). Based on the satellite imagery, it was determined that there was a very good chance the storm would develop further.  Severe thunderstorms and heavy rains were identified in the system.

As of the current  public advisory issued by the National Hurricane Center in Miami (NHC),  maximum sustained winds are 40 MPH...65 KM/HR and movement is ENE at 5 MPH...7 KM/HR.

Current Watches & Warnings

A TROPICAL STORM WARNING IS IN EFFECT FOR... 

THE PACIFIC COASTS OF EXTREME SOUTHEASTERN MEXICO...ALL OF
GUATEMALA...AND ALL OF EL SALVADOR FROM BOCA DE PIJIJIAPAN MEXICO
SOUTHEASTWARD TO THE EL SALVADOR-HONDURAS BORDER.

A TROPICAL STORM WARNING MEANS THAT TROPICAL STORM CONDITIONS ARE
EXPECTED SOMEWHERE WITHIN THE WARNING AREA WITHIN 36 HOURS.

Discussion & Outlook

SUMMARY OF 800 AM PDT...1500 UTC...INFORMATION
----------------------------------------------
LOCATION...13.1N 93.2W
ABOUT 170 MI...275 KM...WSW OF PUERTO DE SAN JOSE GUATEMALA
ABOUT 270 MI...440 KM...W OF SAN SALVADOR EL SALVADOR
MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS...40 MPH...65 KM/HR
PRESENT MOVEMENT...ENE OR 60 DEGREES AT 5 MPH...7 KM/HR
MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE...1003 MB...29.62 INCHES

HAZARDS AFFECTING LAND
----------------------
WIND... 
TROPICAL STORM-FORCE WINDS ARE EXPECTED TO REACH THE PACIFIC
COASTS OF GUATEMALA AND SOUTHEASTERN MEXICO LATER TONIGHT AND
SUNDAY MORNING...MAKING OUTSIDE PREPARATIONS DIFFICULT OR
DANGEROUS.

RAINFALL... 
THIS SYSTEM IS EXPECTED TO PRODUCE TOTAL RAIN
ACCUMULATIONS OF 10 TO 20 INCHES OVER EXTREME SOUTHEASTERN
MEXICO...GUATEMALA...AND MUCH OF EL SALVADOR...WITH POSSIBLE
ISOLATED MAXIMUM AMOUNTS OF 30 INCHES THROUGH SUNDAY. THESE RAINS
COULD CAUSE LIFE-THREATENING FLASH FLOODS AND MUD SLIDES.

STORM SURGE...
A STORM SURGE IS EXPECTED TO PRODUCE SIGNIFICANT
COASTAL FLOODING NEAR AND TO THE EAST OF WHERE THE CENTER MAKES
LANDFALL. NEAR THE COAST...THE SURGE WILL BE ACCOMPANIED BY LARGE
AND DESTRUCTIVE WAVES.

Tropical Storm Resources (click links below)
Tropical Storm AGATHA	National Hurricane Center
East Pacific Tropical Weather Outlook	National Weather Service
East Pacific Tropical Weather Discussion	Hurricane Preparedness
Graphical Tropical Weather Outlook (EPAC)	Real-Time Hurricane Information
Active Storms	NOAA Satellites & Information
NASA: Latest Storm Images	WMO Severe Weather Information Centre
Real-time Monitoring (E. Pacific)	The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale
Real-time Weather Sites	Real-Time Cruise Ship Tracking

Cruise Ship Advisories

There are currently no cruise ship advisories related to TS Agatha. 

No ships are in the immediate vicinity of the tropical storm.

Monitor RSS Feeds and the links above on this blog for any significant changes.

How Does Oil & Hurricanes Mix

Approaching Hurricane Season

Brings New Oil Spill Concerns

June 1st is the official start of the Atlantic Basin Hurricane Season which runs through November 30th.  As you may know, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA's) Office of Response and Restoration has been on the scene of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill from the start.

NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center (CPC) has just released the NOAA 2010 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook which calls for a 85% chance of an above normal hurricane season in the Atlantic region.

Not the storm you are looking for?  Click Image or Here

As the start of the hurricane season approaches, there are many concerns about the impact of a hurricane interacting with the oil spill.   NOAA scientists have prepared a document which addresses the following questions:

• What will happen to a hurricane that runs through this oil slick?
• What will the hurricane do to the oil slick in the Gulf?
• Will the oil slick help or hurt a storm from developing in the Gulf?
• Will the hurricane pull up the oil that is below the surface of the Gulf?
• Have we had experience in the past with hurricanes and oil spills?
• Will there be oil in the rain related to a hurricane?

Their analysis can be found in the following document:
Hurricanes and the Oil Spill: A Factsheet and Frequent Questions

In general, the oil slick isn't expected to have a significant impact on the hurricane.  The track of the hurricane and other factors would determine  the movement of oil from the slick and whether the biodegradation process might be accelerated by the hurricane.

Continual monitoring is needed since the details of the evolution of the storm, the track, the wind speed, the size, the forward motion and the intensity are all unknowns at this point and may alter this general statement.

We will continue to monitor both the oil spill and any developing tropical cyclone reporting details to help you be prepared for your cruise vacation during hurricane season.

Continue reading my series on hurricane preparedness as this week of preparation draws to a close.

Potential for First Named Tropical Storm in Pacific

 Satellite Image of   System 90E  (Credit NASA)

NASA Satellite Spots Forming Cyclone

The Eastern Pacific is likely to see its first named tropical cyclone of the hurricane season this weekend. NASA's Aqua satellite captured an infrared image of a low pressure area called "90E" in the Eastern Pacific that forecasters are watching for tropical development.  Once named, System 90E would become "Tropical Storm Agatha."

AIRS, the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder instrument on Aqua, provides scientists with infrared satellite imagery. That imagery measures cloud top temperatures and sea surface temperatures.  Cloud tops of tropical cyclones are colder than -63 degrees Fahrenheit.  Cold temperatures in that range are indicative of strong thunderstorms and strong convection (rapidly rising air that condenses and forms the thunderstorms that power tropical cyclones).

The developing cyclone, with winds estimated to be 20 to 25 knots (23-28 mph), was first spotted 205 nautical miles south of Salina Cruz, Mexico early AM on May 27th,   The Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) indicated that potential for the development of a significant tropical cyclone within the next 24 hours is good.

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has begun to monitor this potential tropical storm and will issue advisories if warranted.   We will keep an eye on this potential storm also and provide updates.    Monitor the NHC (Eastern Pacific) RSS feeds in the left navigation pane for advisories.

See where ships are relative to tropical storms

Interactive tracking map (real-time ship tracking)

NASA is also tracking another potential tropical cyclone in the Western Pacific near Hong Kong.  We will monitor System 90W for further development also.

Hurricane Preparedness for Cruisers

What happens if there's a hurricane predicted at the time of my cruise?

Cruise lines try to avoid operating any ship in the vicinity of a tropical system and they monitor the progress of these storms very closely. If there is potential threat to any of their guests or ships, the itinerary may be altered to try to avoid any interaction with the storm or any affected areas.

Cruise lines will notify Travel Agencies and the public about any itinerary changes.  We will post updates on tropical storms in blog posts.   RSS links to NOAA advisories are also included in the left navigation pane.

As we saw during the Swine Flu outbreak, Health and Safety is the prime concern for each cruise line. As always, my recommendation is for you to purchase travel insurance, so that you may obtain the necessary assistance should the need arise.

See where ships are relative to tropical storms

Interactive tracking map (real-time ship tracking)

BE PREPARED CHECKLIST

• Monitor hurricane warnings before cruise
• Activate cell phone international roaming if necessary
• Make sure cruise line and travel agent have current contact information
• Make sure airline has current contact information
• Setup flight notifications with airline if possible
• Share your itinerary with family and friends
• Review your travel insurance policy for potential coverages
• Call travel insurance provider to answer any questions about coverage
• Provide emergency contact information to cruise line, travel agent, and airline
• Keep passport, credit card, and necessary medication with you while in port
• If you have a balcony cabin, put all personal articles away
• Follow instructions given by ship's personnel

Enjoy your cruise vacation - rest assured that the cruise line will do everything to make your cruise enjoyable and safe.

It may be necessary for the cruise line to deviate from original published itinerary - this is their right under the contract rules. You want them to do this so that you are safe. Don't be upset if port changes are made - just make the best of your cruise vacation. I always say that any day on a cruise is better than a day at home. 

Not the storm you are looking for?  Click Image or Here

Related Blog Posts


Be Prepared for Hurricanes 
Above Average 2010 Hurricane Forecast
NOAA 2010 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook
NOAA 2010 Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season Outlook
NOAA 2010 Central Pacific Hurricane Prediction
Hurricane Hazards - Inland Flooding
Huricane Hazards - High Winds
Hurricane Hazards - Storm Surge
Hurricane Preparedness Week 2010
Travel With Protection Against Unexpected
Weather



Hurricane Preparedness Week  - May 23 - 29, 2010

Be Prepared for Hurricanes

Washington, DC, May 27, 2010 -- NOAA Administrator Jane Lubchenco, Ph.D. and FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate address reporters at a news conference releasing NOAA's outlook for the 2010 Hurricane Season. FEMA/Bill Koplitz 

Not the storm you are looking for?  Click Image or Here

Above Normal: Atlantic      

Below Normal: Central & Eastern Pacific

An “active to extremely active” hurricane season is expected for the Atlantic Basin this year according to the seasonal outlook issued today by NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center. See Related Blog Posts section below for links to NOAA outlooks for each region as well as hurricane preparedness information.

“If this outlook holds true, this season could be one of the more active on record,” said Jane Lubchenco, Ph.D., under secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator. “The greater likelihood of storms brings an increased risk of a landfall. In short, we urge everyone to be prepared.”

The president recently designated May 23-29, 2010, as National Hurricane Preparedness Week. NOAA and FEMA encourage those living in hurricane-prone states to use this time to review their overall preparedness. More information on individual and family preparedness can be found at www.Ready.gov and www.hurricanes.gov/prepare.

"Preventing the loss of life and minimizing the damage to property from hurricanes are responsibilities that are shared by all"

"FEMA is working across the administration and with our state and local partners to ensure we're prepared for hurricane season," said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. "But we can only be as prepared as the public, so it's important that families and businesses in coastal communities take steps now to be ready. These include developing a communications plan, putting together a kit, and staying informed of the latest forecasts and local emergency plans. You can't control when a hurricane or other emergency may happen, but you can make sure you're ready."

FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate on the importance of personal preparedness and new ways to follow FEMA during the 2010 hurricane season that begins on June 1.

Disaster Prevention should include:

•  Developing a Family Plan
•  Creating a Disaster Supply Kit
•  Having a Place to Go
•  Securing your Home
•  Having a Pet Plan

"How To" guides for protecting your property from flooding & high winds. (FEMA)


Related Links

NOAA Predicts Below Normal Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season
2010 Eastern Pacific Hurricane Outlook
Colorado State University
Climate Prediction Center (CPC)
NOAA/ National Weather Service
WMO Severe Weather Info Centre
National Hurricane Center (NHC)
NWS Regional Offices and Centers
Hurricane Preparedness
Realtime monitoring of tropical East Pacific conditions

More links and information about tropical storms and other weather conditions can be found in the Weather tab above.

Related Blog Posts

Above Average 2010 Hurricane Forecast
NOAA 2010 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook
NOAA 2010 Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season Outlook
NOAA 2010 Central Pacific Hurricane Prediction
Hurricane Hazards - Inland Flooding
Huricane Hazards - High Winds
Hurricane Hazards - Storm Surge
Hurricane Preparedness Week 2010
Travel With Protection Against Unexpected
Weather



Hurricane Preparedness Week  - May 23 - 29, 2010

NOAA 2010 Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season Outlook

NOAA 2010 Hurricane Season Outlooks (May)

2010 Eastern Pacific Hurricane Prediction

Every May the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center (CPC) issues a preliminary Eastern Pacific hurricane season outlook.  There are no updates planned for this outlook. July - September are the peak months of the season.    NOAA Press Release

Looking for current & past hurricanes?  Click Image or Here

The outlook is produced in collaboration with scientists from the National Hurricane Center (NHC), and the Hurricane Research Division (HRD). The Eastern Pacific hurricane region covers the eastern North Pacific Ocean east of 140oW north of the equator.

Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season 
May 15 - November 30

For 2010, the outlook calls for a 75% chance of a below normal season, a 20% chance of a near normal season, and only a 5% chance of an above normal season. An average Eastern Pacific hurricane season features approximately 15 named storms (maximum sustained surface winds between 39-73 mph), with nine of those becoming hurricanes (maximum sustained surface winds of at least 74 mph) and four becoming major hurricanes (maximum sustained surface winds exceeding 111 mph, categories 3-5 on the Saffir-Simpson hurricane scale).

Measuring total seasonal activity: The Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) index

An important measure of the total overall seasonal activity is the NOAA Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) index, which accounts for the intensity and duration of named storms and hurricanes during the season.  According to NOAA’s hurricane season classifications, an ACE value above 117% of the 1950-2000 median reflects an above-normal season. An ACE value above 175% of the median reflects an exceptionally active (or hyperactive) season.

Allowing for uncertainties, NOAA estimates a 70% chance of occurrence for each of the following ranges of activity this season:

• 9-15 named storms
• 4-8 hurricanes
• 1-3 major hurricanes
• An ACE range 45%-95% of the median

This outlook is general guide to the expected overall activity during the upcoming hurricane season. It is not a seasonal hurricane landfall forecast, and it does not predict levels of activity for any particular region.

The climate factors expected to guide the 2010 eastern Pacific hurricane season are 1) a continuation of conditions that have been suppressing activity since 1995, and 2) either ENSO-neutral or La Niña conditions during the peak months (July-September) of the season, with La Niña becoming increasingly likely.  (see ENSO forecast models)

As a service to my readers, we will monitor tropical storms and provide updates. Starting June 1st, we'll add the RSS feeds so that you'll be able to get up to the minute forecasts and advisories from NOAA. Cruise lines monitor tropical storms and may provide advisories of their own. Those will also be shared with you.

Related Links

NOAA Predicts Below Normal Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season
2010 Eastern Pacific Hurricane Outlook
Colorado State University
Climate Prediction Center (CPC)
NOAA/ National Weather Service
WMO Severe Weather Info Centre
National Hurricane Center (NHC)
NWS Regional Offices and Centers
Hurricane Preparedness
Realtime monitoring of tropical East Pacific conditions

More links and information about tropical storms and other weather conditions can be found in the Weather tab above.

Related Blog Posts

Above Average 2010 Hurricane Forecast
NOAA 2010 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook
NOAA 2010 Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season Outlook
NOAA 2010 Central Pacific Hurricane Prediction
Hurricane Hazards - Inland Flooding
Huricane Hazards - High Winds
Hurricane Hazards - Storm Surge
Hurricane Preparedness Week 2010
Travel With Protection Against Unexpected
Weather



Hurricane Preparedness Week  - May 23 - 29, 2010

NOAA 2010 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook

Conditions During Peak Months (Credit: NOAA)

 2010 Atlantic Hurricane Prediction

Every May the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center (CPC) issues a preliminary Atlantic hurricane season outlook.  An updated outlook is released in August, which is the beginning of the peak months of the season.    NOAA Press Release

Not the storm you are looking for?  Click Image or Here

The outlook is produced in collaboration with scientists from the National Hurricane Center (NHC), and the Hurricane Research Division (HRD). The Atlantic hurricane region includes the North Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico.

Atlantic Hurricane Season

June 1 to November 30

For 2010, the outlook calls for a 85% chance of an above normal season, a 10% chance of a near normal season, and only a 5% chance of a below normal season.  An average Atlantic hurricane season features approximately 11 named storms (maximum sustained surface winds between 39-73 mph), with six of those becoming hurricanes (maximum sustained surface winds of at least 74 mph) and two becoming major hurricanes (maximum sustained surface winds exceeding 111 mph, categories 3-5 on the Saffir-Simpson hurricane scale).

Since 1995, we have been in an era of high activity with an average of  14.5 named storms, 8 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes with an average ACE index of 160% of the median.

Measuring total seasonal activity: The Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) index

An important measure of the total overall seasonal activity is the NOAA Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) index, which accounts for the intensity and duration of named storms and hurricanes during the season.  According to NOAA’s hurricane season classifications, an ACE value above 117% of the 1950-2000 median reflects an above-normal season. An ACE value above 175% of the median reflects an exceptionally active (or hyperactive) season.

NOAA estimates a 70% probability for each of the following ranges of activity this season:

• 14-23 Named Storms
• 8-14 Hurricanes
• 3-7 Major Hurricanes
• ACE range of 155% - 270% of the median

This outlook is general guide to the expected overall activity during the upcoming hurricane season. It is not a seasonal hurricane landfall forecast, and it does not predict levels of activity for any particular region.

Due to the ongoing oil crisis in the Gulf of Mexico, NOAA's outlook includes statistical data of tropical cyclone activity for this region. Historically, all above normal seasons have produced at least one named storm in the Gulf of Mexico, and 95% of those seasons have at least two named storms in the Gulf. Most of this activity (80%) occurs during August-October. However, 50% of above normal seasons have had at least one named storm in the region during June-July.

Three climate factors, all of which are conducive historically to increased tropical cyclone activity, were included in the model used to formulate this outlook. These climate factors are: 1) the tropical multi-decadal signal, which has contributed to the ongoing high-activity era for Atlantic hurricanes that began in 1995, 2) a continuation of exceptionally warm sea surface temperatures (SSTs) in the Main Development Region, and 3) either ENSO-neutral or La Niña conditions, with La Niña becoming increasingly likely.  (see ENSO forecast models)

As a service to my readers, we will monitor tropical storms and provide updates. Starting June 1st, we'll add the RSS feeds so that you'll be able to get up to the minute forecasts and advisories from NOAA. Cruise lines monitor tropical storms and may provide advisories of their own. Those will also be shared with you.

Related Links

NOAA Expects Busy Atlantic Hurricane Season
Above Average 2010 Hurricane Forecast  (Colorado State University)
Atlantic Hurricane Outlook & Seasonal Climate Summary Archive
Climate Prediction Center (CPC)
NOAA/ National Weather Service
WMO Severe Weather Info Centre
National Hurricane Center (NHC)
NWS Regional Offices and Centers
Hurricane Preparedness
Forecast Process
Realtime monitoring of tropical Atlantic conditions

More links and information about tropical storms and other weather conditions can be found in the Weather tab above.

Related Blog Posts



Above Average 2010 Hurricane Forecast
NOAA 2010 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook
NOAA 2010 Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season Outlook
NOAA 2010 Central Pacific Hurricane Prediction
Hurricane Hazards - Inland Flooding
Huricane Hazards - High Winds
Hurricane Hazards - Storm Surge
Hurricane Preparedness Week 2010
Travel With Protection Against Unexpected
Weather




Hurricane Preparedness Week  - May 23 - 29, 2010

 

NCL Introduces Howl at the Moon on EPIC

Howl at the Moon Chicago

Norwegian EPIC

Entertainment

Norwegian Cruise Line executives hosted a private party yesterday at Howl at the Moon, Chicago for NCLU graduates.  Besides being entertained, we were briefed on final details about Norwegian EPIC which begins pre-inaugural sailings in less than a month.

What is Howl at the Moon?

Put simply, it is a dueling piano entertainment venue where performers play audience requests and the audience become part of the entertainment too.

If you like piano music, and want to hear some of your old time favorites, this lounge act could be just what the doctor ordered for a fun-filled evening.   We were amazed at how many songs the piano players knew.  For more information about how the show works read: Howl at the Moon Show

Why was NCL Hosting a Party at Howl at the Moon?

Norwegian Cruise Line has been touring select cities across the country at venues which had a significance to the Norwegian EPIC.    When the EPIC debuts this summer, NCL will unveil several new entertainment options for guests' pleasure.   Headliners Lounge will feature Howl at the Moon performers as one of the name-brand entertainment options included in your cruise vacation price.

We will be sharing additional information about entertainment, cabins, and dining options in future columns, so be sure to come back and read about those too.

NOAA 2010 Central Pacific Hurricane Prediction

NOAA CPHC Satellite Image

“Prepare! Watch! Act!”

NOAA’s Central Pacific Hurricane Center  (CPHC) announced that projected climate conditions point to a below normal hurricane season in the Central Pacific basin this year.
 

Central Pacific 

Hurricane Season

June 1 to November 30

The Central Pacific Hurricane Center (CPHC) issues tropical cyclone warnings, watches, advisories, discussions, and statements for all tropical cyclones in the Central Pacific from 140 Degrees West Longitude to the International Dateline.

The National Weather Service Forecast Office in Honolulu activates the CPHC when: (1) a tropical cyclone moves into the Central Pacific from the Eastern Pacific, (2) a tropical cyclone forms in the Central Pacific, or (3) a tropical cyclone moves into the Central Pacific from the West.

Not the storm you are looking for?  Click Image or Here

The seasonal hurricane outlook is produced in collaboration with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center. For 2010, the outlook calls for a 70% chance of a below normal season, a 25% chance of a near normal season, and only a 5% chance of an above normal season.

An average season has four or five tropical cyclones, which includes tropical depressions, tropical storms and hurricanes.  NOAA's CPHC is predicting two to three tropical cyclones in the central Pacific during the 2010 season.

When formulating a tropical cyclone prediction, current climate patterns are compared with historical results.  The current model included two climate factors:  the ongoing low-activity era in the central Pacific, which partly reflects fewer eastern Pacific hurricanes moving into the region and the expectation of either ENSO-neutral or La Niña conditions in the equatorial Pacific, neither of which favors tropical cyclone activity in the central Pacific.

The outlook is a general guide to the overall seasonal hurricane activity and does not predict whether, where, when, or how many any of these systems will affect Hawaii.

As a service to my readers, we will monitor tropical storms and provide updates.   Starting June 1st, we'll add the RSS feeds so that you'll be able to get up to the minute forecasts and advisories from NOAA.   Cruise lines monitor tropical storms and may provide advisories of their own.   Those will also be shared with you.

Related Links

Climate Prediction Center (CPC)
Central Pacific Hurricane Center  (CPHC)
WMO Severe Weather Info Centre
National Hurricane Center (NHC)
NWS Regional Offices and Centers
Hurricane Preparedness

More links and information about tropical storms and other weather conditions can be found in the Weather tab above.

Updated Atlantic Hurricane Forecasts are due out this week.   It is anticipated that the Atlantic forecast will be more severe than the Pacific.    We will bring you the updated forecasts when they are published.

Related Blog Posts

Above Average 2010 Hurricane Forecast
NOAA 2010 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook
NOAA 2010 Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season Outlook
NOAA 2010 Central Pacific Hurricane Prediction
Hurricane Hazards - Inland Flooding
Huricane Hazards - High Winds
Hurricane Hazards - Storm Surge
Hurricane Preparedness Week 2010
Travel With Protection Against Unexpected
Weather



Hurricane Preparedness Week  - May 23 - 29, 2010

Hurricane Hazards - Inland Flooding

Inland Flooding

Hurricane Preparedness Week

May 23-29, 2010

Inland Flooding Hazard

"In the 1970s, '80s, and '90s, inland flooding was responsible for more than half of the deaths associated with tropical cyclones in the United States."

Ed Rappaport
National Hurricane Center

Stop and think about that for a minute and you'll agree that the force of rushing, rising, water can do extensive damage in a very short period of time.    For those that ignore evacuation suggestions, they could quickly be cut off from safety.  Inland flooding can be a major threat to communities hundreds of miles from the coast as intense rain falls from these huge tropical air masses. 

Not the storm you are looking for?  Click Image or Here

Most of these fatalities occur because people underestimate the power of moving water. It isn't necessarily the strongest storm that has the greatest potential for flooding.  Often the weaker, slow moving storm can cause more damage due to flooding than a fast moving severe tropical storm.

What can you do?

• When you hear hurricane, think inland flooding.
• Determine whether you live in a potential flood zone.
• If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
• Keep abreast of road conditions through the news media.
• Move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood water.
• Do not attempt to cross flowing water. As little as six inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
• Develop a flood emergency action plan.
• Have flood insurance. Flood damage is not usually covered by homeowners insurance.  Do not make assumptions.  Check your policy. 

The above information is courtesy of NOAA and the National Weather Service.   It is sound advice that should be followed.  Take flash flood and similar warnings to heart and move to safety.

RELATED INFORMATION

• NEVER DRIVE ACROSS A FLOODED ROAD
• TURN AROUND DON'T DROWN
• TROPICAL CYCLONE FATALITIES 1970-1999
• AVOID FLOOD DAMAGE - CHECKLIST (0.2mb)
• MAX MAYFIELD DISCUSSES - INLAND FLOODING (0.3mb MP3)
• RIVER FORECAST CENTERS
• HYDROMETEOROLOGICAL PREDICTION CENTER
• IN DEPTH REVIEW OF TROPICAL STORM ALLISON
• 6 WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR HOUSE FROM FLOODING
• NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM

Rainfall: Rule of thumb

To estimate the total rainfall in inches from a hurricane, divide 100 by the forward speed of the storm in miles per hour (100 / forward speed = estimated inches of rain).  

We'll continue our Hurricane Preparedness Week coverage by looking at the forecast process next.   Consult the NHC and other websites for additional information about hazards.

Eyjafjallajökull Volcano Pauses

Flight over Eyjafjallajökull at 14:15      22nd May 2010: 

Possibly the last ash explosion. Photo: Steinunn Jakobsdóttir.

Eruption In Iceland Paused

The latest information from the Icelandic Meteorological Service continues to show that the eruption of Eyjafjallajokull remains paused. Steam is still being emitted from the crater but no significant ash has been ejected since Sunday 23rd May. Issued at 1912 on Tue 25 May 2010.

Scientists are reluctant to declare the volcano as dormant.  It is common for erupting volcanoes to "pause" several times before completely stopping.


The eruption activity is minimal and therefore no significant ashfall is expected. The volcano is still being monitored and an ashfall forecast will be issued if necessary.  There is still a considerable amount of steam coming from the crater, but no ash can be seen in it.

There are currently no advisories or flight interruptions.

Related Links

Icelandic Meteorological Service
Icelandic Volcano Blog (London Met Office)
UK Civil Aviation Authority
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Although no ash is being emitted at the moment, while any volcanic activity continues, the Met Office will continue to monitor the situation and we will continue to bring you breaking developments.

Huricane Hazards - High Winds

Hurricane Winds (Credit NOAA)

Tropical Cyclone Wind Impact
None	Sustained winds and gusts <39 mph.
Low	Sustained wind 39 to 57 mph gusts 58 to 73 mph.
Moderate	Sustained wind 58 to 73 mph gusts 74 to 95 mph.
High	Sustained wind 74 to 95 mph gusts 96 to 110 mph.
Extreme	Sustained wind >95 mph gusts >110 mph.

Hurricane Preparedness Week
 May 23 - 29, 2010

Storm Hazards - High Winds

Cat.	Speed (mph)
1	74-95
2	96-110
3	111-130
4	131-155
5	>155

Hurricanes are known for their damaging wind. They are rated in strength by their wind also. The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale (right) is the rule by which their strength is rated.

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale was updated in early 2010. Below are links to the updated documents which were accepted by the National Weather Service.

• The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale  (pdf)

• The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale Summary Table  (pdf)

As you might expect, winds produced by stronger category storms have a greater potential of producing damage, but under the correct circumstances, even less intense storms could produce damage, especially in areas that aren't prepared in advance.

Not the storm you are looking for?  Click Image or Here

Poorly constructed buildings and mobile homes have the greatest risk of damage from tropical storms.  In addition secondary damage can be caused by debris such as signs, roofing materials, and small items left outside which can become flying missiles in hurricanes.   Utilities, such as power, are often disrupted due to uprooted trees, fallen poles, and damage to other structures.

The strongest winds usually occur in the right side of the eyewall of the hurricane.   Wind speed usually decreases significantly within 12 hours of landfall, however winds can stay above hurricane strength well inland.  In addition, tornadoes can be spawned as a result of the hurricane causing additional devastation.

For those living in potential risk areas,  now is the time to prepare for a potential hurricane.  Make sure that you reinforce your structures, pick up items that could be hurled by the wind, and create an evacuation plan.  See the links below for additional details and safety steps to take.

RELATED INFORMATION 

• HIGH WIND SAFETY ACTIONS
• HURRICANE WIND DECAY
• HISTORIC HIGH WIND EVENTS
• RISK AREAS
• AGAINST THE WIND (0.2mb)
• STORM PREDICTION CENTER 
• INSTITUTE FOR BUSINESS & HOME SAFETY (IBHS)

We'll continue our Hurricane Preparedness Week coverage by looking at additional hazards, such as high water, next. This information is also helpful for visitors to risk areas. We'll talk about special considerations for cruise passengers later in the week.