Florida takes on more direct hits from hurricanes than any other state, yet this week, Hurricane Hilary took aim at California, slamming into the state as a tropical storm after making landfall in Mexico.
The storm brought tropical-storm-force winds and life-threatening flash flooding to parts of the southwestern U.S., with historic rainfall for southern California. Have you ever wondered why it is so common for hurricanes to target Florida yet incredibly rare for the U.S. west coast? It mainly comes down to sea surface temperatures.
The Gulf of Mexico and tropical Atlantic Basin have sea surface temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s. Tropical systems need temperatures at least 79 degrees Fahrenheit to survive, a key ingredient for tropical development.
Meanwhile, off the coast of California, sea surface temperatures are only in the 60s. This is not favorable for tropical development. It is very common for tropical storms or hurricanes to make landfall on the western side of Mexico; however, where the water is much warmer. Remnant moisture often tracks into parts of the southwestern U.S. from hurricanes that make landfall in Central America. However, cooler waters and land interaction makes it very rare for a tropical storm or hurricane landfall in California.
Count on the NBC2 First Alert Hurricane Team to be the first to update you on any potential developments in the tropics and brush up on your tropical weather knowledge by visiting the NBC2 Hurricane Guide+ here.
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