I have a quick question...

Does the NHC tracking map’s designation of H, S, D, etc, signify the storm's existence as a tropical entity, or merely wind speed? I think I remember reading it was meerly wind intensity, however considering the fact that these maps are discontinued when tropical characteristics are lost, it seems a trifle odd that they would do that.

After all season of watching tropical waves move west on METEOSAT, it is so weird to look at it and watch Delta moving NE.

I concur Margie... (not weird… fascinating!) I saved all the images of the storm deepening last night and made an extended gif. If you would like, I could email it to you for posterity.