cieldumort
(Moderator)
Tue Oct 25 2011 07:40 PM
Re: Hurricane Rina Strengthening and Moving Slowly

Pressures are falling again, and Rina is likely set to be declared the Atlantic's fourth major hurricane of 2011, in short order.

The latest recon mission has just made a pass through the center and found a minimum central pressure of roughly 966 mb, a decrease of approximately 4mb in less than two hours. It is not clear if winds are substantially responding to this pressure drop yet - it's probably a little too soon - but it's almost certainly having an impact, and barring a quick reversal, Rina should get upgraded yet again, very soon.

Here's some impressive data from the latest Vortex

D. Estimated (by SFMR or visually) Maximum Surface Wind: 103kts (~ 118.5mph)
H. Minimum Sea Level Pressure: 966mb (28.53 inHg)
I. Maximum Flight Level Temp & Pressure Altitude Outside Eye: 10°C (50°F) at a pressure alt. of 3,030m (9,941ft)
J. Maximum Flight Level Temp & Pressure Altitude Inside Eye: 20°C (68°F) at a pressure alt. of 3,036m (9,961ft)