1999-00 South Pacific cyclone season
Encyclopedia
The 1999-00 South Pacific tropical cyclone season was an event in the annual cycle of tropical cyclone
formation and ran from November 1, 1999 to April 30, 2000 in the South Pacific.
It should also be noted that the regional tropical cyclone operational plan defines a "tropical cyclone year" separately from a "tropical cyclone season", with the "tropical cyclone year" for this season lasting from July 1, 1999 to June 30, 2000.
All of the six named storms affected land in some way, but no major damage was reported from any of the storms.
. The storm was difficult to locate the general centre for the next couple of days, but on 6 January, it became more organised, while displaying midget characteristics. On 7 January at 2100 (UTC), it was named Tropical Cyclone Iris, located 330 km (205 mi) northwest of Port Vila
, moving southeast. In Vila, 110 km (70 mi) away from Iris's centre, recorded winds of only up to 20 knots (39.2 km/h), explaining the very small size of the cyclone. Iris intensified with 10-min winds increasing to 60 knots (117.6 km/h) on 8 January at 1200 (UTC). JTWC's estimated 1-min winds was 65 knots (127.4 km/h). There were some indications that Iris could be far more intense than what the warning centres estimated, mainly due to its small size. Iris accelerated eastward, leaving Vanuatu. On 9 January, Iris began its weakening trend, while moving closer to Fiji
. Iris was downgraded to a depression on 10 January, just 48 hours after it had reached its peak intensity. The final warning placed the centre on the Dateline 150 nmi (277.8 km) southeast of Fiji.
Fresh to strong winds and very rough seas were experienced over the western and southern parts of Fiji. Overall damage was minimal. Cyclone Iris was most notable for its rapid strengthening in its early stages, followed by its rapid decay.
on 19 January. It developed slowly, but deepened quickly on 22 January, and advisories were issued on the system on 23 January. It moved southward and was upgraded to Tropical Cyclone Jo on 24 January at 0300 (UTC). Jo moved to the south-east and attained storm force winds 15 hours after being named. The cyclone reached its peak intensity on 26 January at 0000 (UTC) located 650 km (400 mi) south of Nadi
, with 10-min average winds of 60 knots (117.6 km/h). JTWC's peak 1-min average winds were 65 knots (127.4 km/h). Jo moved further to the south-east, and moved close enough to affect Fiji
. Gusts to 50 knots (98 km/h) were recorded on Viti Levu
on Fiji, even though Jo was about 445 km (275 mi) away from the Fiji. Flash flooding was reported, but there was no major river flooding. Cyclone Jo was declared extratropical on 28 January at 0600 (UTC) when located more than 1000 nmi (1,852 km) east of North Island
in New Zealand
.
on February 23, 2000. It initially developed little but late on 24 February, the depression developed rapidly, and the storm reached tropical storm strength at 1800 (UTC), named Tropical Cyclone Kim. It was located about 75 km (45 mi) west of Rikitea
or about 125 km (75 mi) southeast of Mururoa. Cyclone Kim reached hurricane strength on 25 February, only 18 hours after being named, while moving to the south-west. The storm reached its peak intensity of 80 knots (156.8 km/h) on 26 February at 1200 (UTC), located more than 1295 km (805 mi) east of Tahiti
. Minimum pressure at this time was 955 mbar. The estimated 1-min average winds from NPMOC was 100 knots (196 km/h). Kim gradually weakened over cooler waters, still moving to the south-west. Cyclone Kim became extratropical south of Tahiti
on February 29 at 0600 (UTC).
Damage from Kim was minimal from Rikitea
, since it was only a depression at the time. The island recorded 10-min average winds of 27 knots (52.9 km/h), with a peak gust of 52 knots (101.9 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 996 mbar. As a hurricane, the island of Rapa Iti
recorded a gust of 74 knots (145 km/h), when Kim was 150 km (90 mi) away from the island. A pressure of 995.8 mbar was recorded. Overall, damage in French Polynesia
was minor.
. The depression drifted south-westward in the next 24 hours. The first gale warning was issued at 0000 UTC on the 5th, located 555 km (345 mi) west-southwest of Tahiti
. The depression moved through the southern Cook Islands
and slowly developed, but suddenly developed explosively on 6 March at 0600 UTC while located near Rarotonga
. It was named Leo at 1200 UTC on the 6th. It accelerated to the south-southwest and reached a peak intensity of 50 knots (98 km/h) on the 7th at 0000 UTC. After 1800 UTC, Leo recurved to the southeast and became extratropical six hours later. Although, Leo moved over the island of Mangaia
, any damage was minor.
. Wind warnings were issued for some islands in Tonga including Vavau, Haapai and Tongatapu
. The storm rapidly developed on 8 March at 0600 UTC, and was named Tropical Cyclone Mona six hours later, while located 75 km (45 mi) west of Haapai and moving slowly southward. A storm warning was put for the whole Tongatapu Group on the 8th. An eye developed on 9 March, and Mona was upgraded to hurricane intensity at 0600 UTC, located 55 km (35 mi) west of Tongatapu
. Mona moved south-southeastward and accelerated. It reached an intensity of 75 knots (147 km/h) on 10 March, 370 km (230 mi) southeast of Tongatapu. NPMOC's 1-min winds were estimated at 80 knots (156.8 km/h). Minimum pressure of Mona was 965 mbar. It began to weaken rapidly, as it sped off southwards, and became extratropical on 11 March at 1200 UTC.
In the Vavau and Haapai groups, there was damage to crops, particularly to banana and coconut plantations. There was moderate damage to houses and school buildings in Tongatapu. The unofficial damage assessment, according to the Tongan National Disaster Management Office, totalled Tongan $6 million. A police patrol boat sank off Eua Island in the Tongatapu group.
on 12 April. It moved to the south-west while continually strengthening. By the 15 April the potential for development to a cyclone was considered "high" by RSMC Nadi. At 1700 UTC, it was named Tropical Cyclone Neil, located 150 km (90 mi) southeast of Kadavu
. It moved slowly southward, but on 16 April at 1200 UTC, it was downgraded to a tropical depression.
Damage from Neil was minimal. Kadavu
and Ono-i-Lau
in Fiji reported gales from Neil, while torrential rain was experienced over some parts of Fiji
. There was one fatality due to drowning, but not directly associated with the cyclone.
in Nadi, or Fiji Meteorological Service
. As soon as a tropical depression becomes a tropical cyclone it is named by the warning centre having responsibility for it at that time. If a tropical depression becomes a tropical cyclone in the Wellington RSMC area of responsibility, MetService
, in consultation with RSMC Nadi, will name the cyclone by using the next name from the list.
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The 1999-00 South Pacific tropical cyclone season was an event in the annual cycle of tropical cyclone
formation and ran from November 1, 1999 to April 30, 2000 in the South Pacific.
It should also be noted that the regional tropical cyclone operational plan defines a "tropical cyclone year" separately from a "tropical cyclone season", with the "tropical cyclone year" for this season lasting from July 1, 1999 to June 30, 2000.
All of the six named storms affected land in some way, but no major damage was reported from any of the storms.
. The storm was difficult to locate the general centre for the next couple of days, but on 6 January, it became more organised, while displaying midget characteristics. On 7 January at 2100 (UTC), it was named Tropical Cyclone Iris, located 330 km (205 mi) northwest of Port Vila
, moving southeast. In Vila, 110 km (70 mi) away from Iris's centre, recorded winds of only up to 20 knots (39.2 km/h), explaining the very small size of the cyclone. Iris intensified with 10-min winds increasing to 60 knots (117.6 km/h) on 8 January at 1200 (UTC). JTWC's estimated 1-min winds was 65 knots (127.4 km/h). There were some indications that Iris could be far more intense than what the warning centres estimated, mainly due to its small size. Iris accelerated eastward, leaving Vanuatu. On 9 January, Iris began its weakening trend, while moving closer to Fiji
. Iris was downgraded to a depression on 10 January, just 48 hours after it had reached its peak intensity. The final warning placed the centre on the Dateline 150 nmi (277.8 km) southeast of Fiji.
Fresh to strong winds and very rough seas were experienced over the western and southern parts of Fiji. Overall damage was minimal. Cyclone Iris was most notable for its rapid strengthening in its early stages, followed by its rapid decay.
on 19 January. It developed slowly, but deepened quickly on 22 January, and advisories were issued on the system on 23 January. It moved southward and was upgraded to Tropical Cyclone Jo on 24 January at 0300 (UTC). Jo moved to the south-east and attained storm force winds 15 hours after being named. The cyclone reached its peak intensity on 26 January at 0000 (UTC) located 650 km (400 mi) south of Nadi
, with 10-min average winds of 60 knots (117.6 km/h). JTWC's peak 1-min average winds were 65 knots (127.4 km/h). Jo moved further to the south-east, and moved close enough to affect Fiji
. Gusts to 50 knots (98 km/h) were recorded on Viti Levu
on Fiji, even though Jo was about 445 km (275 mi) away from the Fiji. Flash flooding was reported, but there was no major river flooding. Cyclone Jo was declared extratropical on 28 January at 0600 (UTC) when located more than 1000 nmi (1,852 km) east of North Island
in New Zealand
.
on February 23, 2000. It initially developed little but late on 24 February, the depression developed rapidly, and the storm reached tropical storm strength at 1800 (UTC), named Tropical Cyclone Kim. It was located about 75 km (45 mi) west of Rikitea
or about 125 km (75 mi) southeast of Mururoa. Cyclone Kim reached hurricane strength on 25 February, only 18 hours after being named, while moving to the south-west. The storm reached its peak intensity of 80 knots (156.8 km/h) on 26 February at 1200 (UTC), located more than 1295 km (805 mi) east of Tahiti
. Minimum pressure at this time was 955 mbar. The estimated 1-min average winds from NPMOC was 100 knots (196 km/h). Kim gradually weakened over cooler waters, still moving to the south-west. Cyclone Kim became extratropical south of Tahiti
on February 29 at 0600 (UTC).
Damage from Kim was minimal from Rikitea
, since it was only a depression at the time. The island recorded 10-min average winds of 27 knots (52.9 km/h), with a peak gust of 52 knots (101.9 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 996 mbar. As a hurricane, the island of Rapa Iti
recorded a gust of 74 knots (145 km/h), when Kim was 150 km (90 mi) away from the island. A pressure of 995.8 mbar was recorded. Overall, damage in French Polynesia
was minor.
. The depression drifted south-westward in the next 24 hours. The first gale warning was issued at 0000 UTC on the 5th, located 555 km (345 mi) west-southwest of Tahiti
. The depression moved through the southern Cook Islands
and slowly developed, but suddenly developed explosively on 6 March at 0600 UTC while located near Rarotonga
. It was named Leo at 1200 UTC on the 6th. It accelerated to the south-southwest and reached a peak intensity of 50 knots (98 km/h) on the 7th at 0000 UTC. After 1800 UTC, Leo recurved to the southeast and became extratropical six hours later. Although, Leo moved over the island of Mangaia
, any damage was minor.
. Wind warnings were issued for some islands in Tonga including Vavau, Haapai and Tongatapu
. The storm rapidly developed on 8 March at 0600 UTC, and was named Tropical Cyclone Mona six hours later, while located 75 km (45 mi) west of Haapai and moving slowly southward. A storm warning was put for the whole Tongatapu Group on the 8th. An eye developed on 9 March, and Mona was upgraded to hurricane intensity at 0600 UTC, located 55 km (35 mi) west of Tongatapu
. Mona moved south-southeastward and accelerated. It reached an intensity of 75 knots (147 km/h) on 10 March, 370 km (230 mi) southeast of Tongatapu. NPMOC's 1-min winds were estimated at 80 knots (156.8 km/h). Minimum pressure of Mona was 965 mbar. It began to weaken rapidly, as it sped off southwards, and became extratropical on 11 March at 1200 UTC.
In the Vavau and Haapai groups, there was damage to crops, particularly to banana and coconut plantations. There was moderate damage to houses and school buildings in Tongatapu. The unofficial damage assessment, according to the Tongan National Disaster Management Office, totalled Tongan $6 million. A police patrol boat sank off Eua Island in the Tongatapu group.
on 12 April. It moved to the south-west while continually strengthening. By the 15 April the potential for development to a cyclone was considered "high" by RSMC Nadi. At 1700 UTC, it was named Tropical Cyclone Neil, located 150 km (90 mi) southeast of Kadavu
. It moved slowly southward, but on 16 April at 1200 UTC, it was downgraded to a tropical depression.
Damage from Neil was minimal. Kadavu
and Ono-i-Lau
in Fiji reported gales from Neil, while torrential rain was experienced over some parts of Fiji
. There was one fatality due to drowning, but not directly associated with the cyclone.
in Nadi, or Fiji Meteorological Service
. As soon as a tropical depression becomes a tropical cyclone it is named by the warning centre having responsibility for it at that time. If a tropical depression becomes a tropical cyclone in the Wellington RSMC area of responsibility, MetService
, in consultation with RSMC Nadi, will name the cyclone by using the next name from the list.
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The 1999-00 South Pacific tropical cyclone season was an event in the annual cycle of tropical cyclone
formation and ran from November 1, 1999 to April 30, 2000 in the South Pacific.
It should also be noted that the regional tropical cyclone operational plan defines a "tropical cyclone year" separately from a "tropical cyclone season", with the "tropical cyclone year" for this season lasting from July 1, 1999 to June 30, 2000.
All of the six named storms affected land in some way, but no major damage was reported from any of the storms.
. The storm was difficult to locate the general centre for the next couple of days, but on 6 January, it became more organised, while displaying midget characteristics. On 7 January at 2100 (UTC), it was named Tropical Cyclone Iris, located 330 km (205 mi) northwest of Port Vila
, moving southeast. In Vila, 110 km (70 mi) away from Iris's centre, recorded winds of only up to 20 knots (39.2 km/h), explaining the very small size of the cyclone. Iris intensified with 10-min winds increasing to 60 knots (117.6 km/h) on 8 January at 1200 (UTC). JTWC's estimated 1-min winds was 65 knots (127.4 km/h). There were some indications that Iris could be far more intense than what the warning centres estimated, mainly due to its small size. Iris accelerated eastward, leaving Vanuatu. On 9 January, Iris began its weakening trend, while moving closer to Fiji
. Iris was downgraded to a depression on 10 January, just 48 hours after it had reached its peak intensity. The final warning placed the centre on the Dateline 150 nmi (277.8 km) southeast of Fiji.
Fresh to strong winds and very rough seas were experienced over the western and southern parts of Fiji. Overall damage was minimal. Cyclone Iris was most notable for its rapid strengthening in its early stages, followed by its rapid decay.
on 19 January. It developed slowly, but deepened quickly on 22 January, and advisories were issued on the system on 23 January. It moved southward and was upgraded to Tropical Cyclone Jo on 24 January at 0300 (UTC). Jo moved to the south-east and attained storm force winds 15 hours after being named. The cyclone reached its peak intensity on 26 January at 0000 (UTC) located 650 km (400 mi) south of Nadi
, with 10-min average winds of 60 knots (117.6 km/h). JTWC's peak 1-min average winds were 65 knots (127.4 km/h). Jo moved further to the south-east, and moved close enough to affect Fiji
. Gusts to 50 knots (98 km/h) were recorded on Viti Levu
on Fiji, even though Jo was about 445 km (275 mi) away from the Fiji. Flash flooding was reported, but there was no major river flooding. Cyclone Jo was declared extratropical on 28 January at 0600 (UTC) when located more than 1000 nmi (1,852 km) east of North Island
in New Zealand
.
on February 23, 2000. It initially developed little but late on 24 February, the depression developed rapidly, and the storm reached tropical storm strength at 1800 (UTC), named Tropical Cyclone Kim. It was located about 75 km (45 mi) west of Rikitea
or about 125 km (75 mi) southeast of Mururoa. Cyclone Kim reached hurricane strength on 25 February, only 18 hours after being named, while moving to the south-west. The storm reached its peak intensity of 80 knots (156.8 km/h) on 26 February at 1200 (UTC), located more than 1295 km (805 mi) east of Tahiti
. Minimum pressure at this time was 955 mbar. The estimated 1-min average winds from NPMOC was 100 knots (196 km/h). Kim gradually weakened over cooler waters, still moving to the south-west. Cyclone Kim became extratropical south of Tahiti
on February 29 at 0600 (UTC).
Damage from Kim was minimal from Rikitea
, since it was only a depression at the time. The island recorded 10-min average winds of 27 knots (52.9 km/h), with a peak gust of 52 knots (101.9 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 996 mbar. As a hurricane, the island of Rapa Iti
recorded a gust of 74 knots (145 km/h), when Kim was 150 km (90 mi) away from the island. A pressure of 995.8 mbar was recorded. Overall, damage in French Polynesia
was minor.
. The depression drifted south-westward in the next 24 hours. The first gale warning was issued at 0000 UTC on the 5th, located 555 km (345 mi) west-southwest of Tahiti
. The depression moved through the southern Cook Islands
and slowly developed, but suddenly developed explosively on 6 March at 0600 UTC while located near Rarotonga
. It was named Leo at 1200 UTC on the 6th. It accelerated to the south-southwest and reached a peak intensity of 50 knots (98 km/h) on the 7th at 0000 UTC. After 1800 UTC, Leo recurved to the southeast and became extratropical six hours later. Although, Leo moved over the island of Mangaia
, any damage was minor.
. Wind warnings were issued for some islands in Tonga including Vavau, Haapai and Tongatapu
. The storm rapidly developed on 8 March at 0600 UTC, and was named Tropical Cyclone Mona six hours later, while located 75 km (45 mi) west of Haapai and moving slowly southward. A storm warning was put for the whole Tongatapu Group on the 8th. An eye developed on 9 March, and Mona was upgraded to hurricane intensity at 0600 UTC, located 55 km (35 mi) west of Tongatapu
. Mona moved south-southeastward and accelerated. It reached an intensity of 75 knots (147 km/h) on 10 March, 370 km (230 mi) southeast of Tongatapu. NPMOC's 1-min winds were estimated at 80 knots (156.8 km/h). Minimum pressure of Mona was 965 mbar. It began to weaken rapidly, as it sped off southwards, and became extratropical on 11 March at 1200 UTC.
In the Vavau and Haapai groups, there was damage to crops, particularly to banana and coconut plantations. There was moderate damage to houses and school buildings in Tongatapu. The unofficial damage assessment, according to the Tongan National Disaster Management Office, totalled Tongan $6 million. A police patrol boat sank off Eua Island in the Tongatapu group.
on 12 April. It moved to the south-west while continually strengthening. By the 15 April the potential for development to a cyclone was considered "high" by RSMC Nadi. At 1700 UTC, it was named Tropical Cyclone Neil, located 150 km (90 mi) southeast of Kadavu
. It moved slowly southward, but on 16 April at 1200 UTC, it was downgraded to a tropical depression.
Damage from Neil was minimal. Kadavu
and Ono-i-Lau
in Fiji reported gales from Neil, while torrential rain was experienced over some parts of Fiji
. There was one fatality due to drowning, but not directly associated with the cyclone.
in Nadi, or Fiji Meteorological Service
. As soon as a tropical depression becomes a tropical cyclone it is named by the warning centre having responsibility for it at that time. If a tropical depression becomes a tropical cyclone in the Wellington RSMC area of responsibility, MetService
, in consultation with RSMC Nadi, will name the cyclone by using the next name from the list.
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Tropical cyclone
A tropical cyclone is a storm system characterized by a large low-pressure center and numerous thunderstorms that produce strong winds and heavy rain. Tropical cyclones strengthen when water evaporated from the ocean is released as the saturated air rises, resulting in condensation of water vapor...
formation and ran from November 1, 1999 to April 30, 2000 in the South Pacific.
It should also be noted that the regional tropical cyclone operational plan defines a "tropical cyclone year" separately from a "tropical cyclone season", with the "tropical cyclone year" for this season lasting from July 1, 1999 to June 30, 2000.
All of the six named storms affected land in some way, but no major damage was reported from any of the storms.
Severe Tropical Cyclone Iris
A disturbance was identified on 3 January at 0600 (UTC) near Espiritu Santo in VanuatuVanuatu
Vanuatu , officially the Republic of Vanuatu , is an island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean. The archipelago, which is of volcanic origin, is some east of northern Australia, northeast of New Caledonia, west of Fiji, and southeast of the Solomon Islands, near New Guinea.Vanuatu was...
. The storm was difficult to locate the general centre for the next couple of days, but on 6 January, it became more organised, while displaying midget characteristics. On 7 January at 2100 (UTC), it was named Tropical Cyclone Iris, located 330 km (205 mi) northwest of Port Vila
Port Vila
Port Vila is the capital and largest city of Vanuatu. Situated on the south coast of the island of Efate, in Shefa Province, the city population at last was 29,356, an increase of 55% on the previous census result . This suggests a 2007 population of about 40,000 or around 65% of the province's...
, moving southeast. In Vila, 110 km (70 mi) away from Iris's centre, recorded winds of only up to 20 knots (39.2 km/h), explaining the very small size of the cyclone. Iris intensified with 10-min winds increasing to 60 knots (117.6 km/h) on 8 January at 1200 (UTC). JTWC's estimated 1-min winds was 65 knots (127.4 km/h). There were some indications that Iris could be far more intense than what the warning centres estimated, mainly due to its small size. Iris accelerated eastward, leaving Vanuatu. On 9 January, Iris began its weakening trend, while moving closer to Fiji
Fiji
Fiji , officially the Republic of Fiji , is an island nation in Melanesia in the South Pacific Ocean about northeast of New Zealand's North Island...
. Iris was downgraded to a depression on 10 January, just 48 hours after it had reached its peak intensity. The final warning placed the centre on the Dateline 150 nmi (277.8 km) southeast of Fiji.
Fresh to strong winds and very rough seas were experienced over the western and southern parts of Fiji. Overall damage was minimal. Cyclone Iris was most notable for its rapid strengthening in its early stages, followed by its rapid decay.
Severe Tropical Cyclone Jo
A disturbance was first identified over northern parts of VanuatuVanuatu
Vanuatu , officially the Republic of Vanuatu , is an island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean. The archipelago, which is of volcanic origin, is some east of northern Australia, northeast of New Caledonia, west of Fiji, and southeast of the Solomon Islands, near New Guinea.Vanuatu was...
on 19 January. It developed slowly, but deepened quickly on 22 January, and advisories were issued on the system on 23 January. It moved southward and was upgraded to Tropical Cyclone Jo on 24 January at 0300 (UTC). Jo moved to the south-east and attained storm force winds 15 hours after being named. The cyclone reached its peak intensity on 26 January at 0000 (UTC) located 650 km (400 mi) south of Nadi
Nadi
Nadi is the third-largest conurbation in Fiji. It is located on the western side of the main island of Viti Levu, and had a population of 42,284 at the most recent census, in 2007. Nadi is multiracial with many of its inhabitants Indian or Fijian, along with a large transient population of foreign...
, with 10-min average winds of 60 knots (117.6 km/h). JTWC's peak 1-min average winds were 65 knots (127.4 km/h). Jo moved further to the south-east, and moved close enough to affect Fiji
Fiji
Fiji , officially the Republic of Fiji , is an island nation in Melanesia in the South Pacific Ocean about northeast of New Zealand's North Island...
. Gusts to 50 knots (98 km/h) were recorded on Viti Levu
Viti Levu
Viti Levu is the largest island in the Republic of Fiji, the site of the nation's capital, Suva, and home to a large majority of Fiji's population.- Geography and economy :...
on Fiji, even though Jo was about 445 km (275 mi) away from the Fiji. Flash flooding was reported, but there was no major river flooding. Cyclone Jo was declared extratropical on 28 January at 0600 (UTC) when located more than 1000 nmi (1,852 km) east of North Island
North Island
The North Island is one of the two main islands of New Zealand, separated from the much less populous South Island by Cook Strait. The island is in area, making it the world's 14th-largest island...
in New Zealand
New Zealand
New Zealand is an island country in the south-western Pacific Ocean comprising two main landmasses and numerous smaller islands. The country is situated some east of Australia across the Tasman Sea, and roughly south of the Pacific island nations of New Caledonia, Fiji, and Tonga...
.
Severe Tropical Cyclone Kim
Cyclone Kim formed south east of French PolynesiaFrench Polynesia
French Polynesia is an overseas country of the French Republic . It is made up of several groups of Polynesian islands, the most famous island being Tahiti in the Society Islands group, which is also the most populous island and the seat of the capital of the territory...
on February 23, 2000. It initially developed little but late on 24 February, the depression developed rapidly, and the storm reached tropical storm strength at 1800 (UTC), named Tropical Cyclone Kim. It was located about 75 km (45 mi) west of Rikitea
Rikitea
Rikitea is a village located on Mangareva island. It is the chief town of the Gambier Islands, French Polynesia. It is served by the Totegegie Airport....
or about 125 km (75 mi) southeast of Mururoa. Cyclone Kim reached hurricane strength on 25 February, only 18 hours after being named, while moving to the south-west. The storm reached its peak intensity of 80 knots (156.8 km/h) on 26 February at 1200 (UTC), located more than 1295 km (805 mi) east of Tahiti
Tahiti
Tahiti is the largest island in the Windward group of French Polynesia, located in the archipelago of the Society Islands in the southern Pacific Ocean. It is the economic, cultural and political centre of French Polynesia. The island was formed from volcanic activity and is high and mountainous...
. Minimum pressure at this time was 955 mbar. The estimated 1-min average winds from NPMOC was 100 knots (196 km/h). Kim gradually weakened over cooler waters, still moving to the south-west. Cyclone Kim became extratropical south of Tahiti
Tahiti
Tahiti is the largest island in the Windward group of French Polynesia, located in the archipelago of the Society Islands in the southern Pacific Ocean. It is the economic, cultural and political centre of French Polynesia. The island was formed from volcanic activity and is high and mountainous...
on February 29 at 0600 (UTC).
Damage from Kim was minimal from Rikitea
Rikitea
Rikitea is a village located on Mangareva island. It is the chief town of the Gambier Islands, French Polynesia. It is served by the Totegegie Airport....
, since it was only a depression at the time. The island recorded 10-min average winds of 27 knots (52.9 km/h), with a peak gust of 52 knots (101.9 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 996 mbar. As a hurricane, the island of Rapa Iti
Rapa Iti
Rapa or Rapa Iti as it is sometimes called in more recent years , is the largest and only inhabited island of the Bass Islands in French Polynesia. An older name for the island is Oparo Its area is 40 km2 with a population of almost 500 and a max elevation of 650 m...
recorded a gust of 74 knots (145 km/h), when Kim was 150 km (90 mi) away from the island. A pressure of 995.8 mbar was recorded. Overall, damage in French Polynesia
French Polynesia
French Polynesia is an overseas country of the French Republic . It is made up of several groups of Polynesian islands, the most famous island being Tahiti in the Society Islands group, which is also the most populous island and the seat of the capital of the territory...
was minor.
Tropical Cyclone Leo
Tropical Depression 14F was first identified on 4 March at 0600 UTC, almost stationary, and located 110 km (70 mi) west-northwest of French PolynesiaFrench Polynesia
French Polynesia is an overseas country of the French Republic . It is made up of several groups of Polynesian islands, the most famous island being Tahiti in the Society Islands group, which is also the most populous island and the seat of the capital of the territory...
. The depression drifted south-westward in the next 24 hours. The first gale warning was issued at 0000 UTC on the 5th, located 555 km (345 mi) west-southwest of Tahiti
Tahiti
Tahiti is the largest island in the Windward group of French Polynesia, located in the archipelago of the Society Islands in the southern Pacific Ocean. It is the economic, cultural and political centre of French Polynesia. The island was formed from volcanic activity and is high and mountainous...
. The depression moved through the southern Cook Islands
Cook Islands
The Cook Islands is a self-governing parliamentary democracy in the South Pacific Ocean in free association with New Zealand...
and slowly developed, but suddenly developed explosively on 6 March at 0600 UTC while located near Rarotonga
Rarotonga
Rarotonga is the most populous island of the Cook Islands, with a population of 14,153 , out of the country's total population of 19,569.The Cook Islands' Parliament buildings and international airport are on Rarotonga...
. It was named Leo at 1200 UTC on the 6th. It accelerated to the south-southwest and reached a peak intensity of 50 knots (98 km/h) on the 7th at 0000 UTC. After 1800 UTC, Leo recurved to the southeast and became extratropical six hours later. Although, Leo moved over the island of Mangaia
Mangaia
Mangaia is the most southerly of the Cook Islands and the second largest, after Rarotonga.-Geography:...
, any damage was minor.
Severe Tropical Cyclone Mona
As Leo was developing, a new disturbance formed south of Apia in Western Samoa. The first gale warning was issued on 7 March as it moved closer to northern TongaTonga
Tonga, officially the Kingdom of Tonga , is a state and an archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, comprising 176 islands scattered over of ocean in the South Pacific...
. Wind warnings were issued for some islands in Tonga including Vavau, Haapai and Tongatapu
Tongatapu
Tongatapu is the main island of the Kingdom of Tonga and the location of its capital Nukualofa. It is located in Tonga's southern island group, to which it gives its name, and is the country's most populous island, with approximately 71,260 residents , 70.5% of the national population...
. The storm rapidly developed on 8 March at 0600 UTC, and was named Tropical Cyclone Mona six hours later, while located 75 km (45 mi) west of Haapai and moving slowly southward. A storm warning was put for the whole Tongatapu Group on the 8th. An eye developed on 9 March, and Mona was upgraded to hurricane intensity at 0600 UTC, located 55 km (35 mi) west of Tongatapu
Tongatapu
Tongatapu is the main island of the Kingdom of Tonga and the location of its capital Nukualofa. It is located in Tonga's southern island group, to which it gives its name, and is the country's most populous island, with approximately 71,260 residents , 70.5% of the national population...
. Mona moved south-southeastward and accelerated. It reached an intensity of 75 knots (147 km/h) on 10 March, 370 km (230 mi) southeast of Tongatapu. NPMOC's 1-min winds were estimated at 80 knots (156.8 km/h). Minimum pressure of Mona was 965 mbar. It began to weaken rapidly, as it sped off southwards, and became extratropical on 11 March at 1200 UTC.
In the Vavau and Haapai groups, there was damage to crops, particularly to banana and coconut plantations. There was moderate damage to houses and school buildings in Tongatapu. The unofficial damage assessment, according to the Tongan National Disaster Management Office, totalled Tongan $6 million. A police patrol boat sank off Eua Island in the Tongatapu group.
Tropical Cyclone Neil
The sixth and last cyclone was first identified northeast of FijiFiji
Fiji , officially the Republic of Fiji , is an island nation in Melanesia in the South Pacific Ocean about northeast of New Zealand's North Island...
on 12 April. It moved to the south-west while continually strengthening. By the 15 April the potential for development to a cyclone was considered "high" by RSMC Nadi. At 1700 UTC, it was named Tropical Cyclone Neil, located 150 km (90 mi) southeast of Kadavu
Kadavu
Kadavu , with an area of , is the fourth largest island in Fiji, and the largest island in the Kadavu Group, a volcanic archipelago consisting of Kadavu, Ono, Galoa and a number of smaller islands in the Great Astrolabe Reef...
. It moved slowly southward, but on 16 April at 1200 UTC, it was downgraded to a tropical depression.
Damage from Neil was minimal. Kadavu
Kadavu
Kadavu , with an area of , is the fourth largest island in Fiji, and the largest island in the Kadavu Group, a volcanic archipelago consisting of Kadavu, Ono, Galoa and a number of smaller islands in the Great Astrolabe Reef...
and Ono-i-Lau
Ono-i-Lau
Ono-i-Lau is a volcanic and coral island in Fiji's Lau archipelago.One of the southernmost of the Lau Islands, it is located at 20.80° South and 178.75° East, and occupies an area of 7.9 square kilometers. It has a maximum elevation of 113 meters. It is 90 kilometers southsouthwest of Vatoa, the...
in Fiji reported gales from Neil, while torrential rain was experienced over some parts of Fiji
Fiji
Fiji , officially the Republic of Fiji , is an island nation in Melanesia in the South Pacific Ocean about northeast of New Zealand's North Island...
. There was one fatality due to drowning, but not directly associated with the cyclone.
Storm names
South Pacific tropical cyclones are usually assigned names by the RSMCRegional Specialized Meteorological Centre
A Regional Specialized Meteorological Centre is responsible for the distribution of information, advisories, and warnings regarding the specific program they have a part of, agreed by consensus at the World Meteorological Organization as part of the World Weather Watch.-Tropical...
in Nadi, or Fiji Meteorological Service
Fiji Meteorological Service
The Fiji Meteorological Service is a Department of the government of Fiji responsible for providing weather forecasts and is based in Nadi. Since 1995, FMS has been responsible for naming and tracking tropical cyclones in the Southwest Pacific region...
. As soon as a tropical depression becomes a tropical cyclone it is named by the warning centre having responsibility for it at that time. If a tropical depression becomes a tropical cyclone in the Wellington RSMC area of responsibility, MetService
Meteorological Service of New Zealand Limited
Meteorological Service of New Zealand Limited was established as a State-Owned Enterprise in 1992. It employs about 215 staff and its headquarters are in Wellington, New Zealand...
, in consultation with RSMC Nadi, will name the cyclone by using the next name from the list.
{|width="90%"
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The 1999-00 South Pacific tropical cyclone season was an event in the annual cycle of tropical cyclone
Tropical cyclone
A tropical cyclone is a storm system characterized by a large low-pressure center and numerous thunderstorms that produce strong winds and heavy rain. Tropical cyclones strengthen when water evaporated from the ocean is released as the saturated air rises, resulting in condensation of water vapor...
formation and ran from November 1, 1999 to April 30, 2000 in the South Pacific.
It should also be noted that the regional tropical cyclone operational plan defines a "tropical cyclone year" separately from a "tropical cyclone season", with the "tropical cyclone year" for this season lasting from July 1, 1999 to June 30, 2000.
All of the six named storms affected land in some way, but no major damage was reported from any of the storms.
Severe Tropical Cyclone Iris
A disturbance was identified on 3 January at 0600 (UTC) near Espiritu Santo in VanuatuVanuatu
Vanuatu , officially the Republic of Vanuatu , is an island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean. The archipelago, which is of volcanic origin, is some east of northern Australia, northeast of New Caledonia, west of Fiji, and southeast of the Solomon Islands, near New Guinea.Vanuatu was...
. The storm was difficult to locate the general centre for the next couple of days, but on 6 January, it became more organised, while displaying midget characteristics. On 7 January at 2100 (UTC), it was named Tropical Cyclone Iris, located 330 km (205 mi) northwest of Port Vila
Port Vila
Port Vila is the capital and largest city of Vanuatu. Situated on the south coast of the island of Efate, in Shefa Province, the city population at last was 29,356, an increase of 55% on the previous census result . This suggests a 2007 population of about 40,000 or around 65% of the province's...
, moving southeast. In Vila, 110 km (70 mi) away from Iris's centre, recorded winds of only up to 20 knots (39.2 km/h), explaining the very small size of the cyclone. Iris intensified with 10-min winds increasing to 60 knots (117.6 km/h) on 8 January at 1200 (UTC). JTWC's estimated 1-min winds was 65 knots (127.4 km/h). There were some indications that Iris could be far more intense than what the warning centres estimated, mainly due to its small size. Iris accelerated eastward, leaving Vanuatu. On 9 January, Iris began its weakening trend, while moving closer to Fiji
Fiji
Fiji , officially the Republic of Fiji , is an island nation in Melanesia in the South Pacific Ocean about northeast of New Zealand's North Island...
. Iris was downgraded to a depression on 10 January, just 48 hours after it had reached its peak intensity. The final warning placed the centre on the Dateline 150 nmi (277.8 km) southeast of Fiji.
Fresh to strong winds and very rough seas were experienced over the western and southern parts of Fiji. Overall damage was minimal. Cyclone Iris was most notable for its rapid strengthening in its early stages, followed by its rapid decay.
Severe Tropical Cyclone Jo
A disturbance was first identified over northern parts of VanuatuVanuatu
Vanuatu , officially the Republic of Vanuatu , is an island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean. The archipelago, which is of volcanic origin, is some east of northern Australia, northeast of New Caledonia, west of Fiji, and southeast of the Solomon Islands, near New Guinea.Vanuatu was...
on 19 January. It developed slowly, but deepened quickly on 22 January, and advisories were issued on the system on 23 January. It moved southward and was upgraded to Tropical Cyclone Jo on 24 January at 0300 (UTC). Jo moved to the south-east and attained storm force winds 15 hours after being named. The cyclone reached its peak intensity on 26 January at 0000 (UTC) located 650 km (400 mi) south of Nadi
Nadi
Nadi is the third-largest conurbation in Fiji. It is located on the western side of the main island of Viti Levu, and had a population of 42,284 at the most recent census, in 2007. Nadi is multiracial with many of its inhabitants Indian or Fijian, along with a large transient population of foreign...
, with 10-min average winds of 60 knots (117.6 km/h). JTWC's peak 1-min average winds were 65 knots (127.4 km/h). Jo moved further to the south-east, and moved close enough to affect Fiji
Fiji
Fiji , officially the Republic of Fiji , is an island nation in Melanesia in the South Pacific Ocean about northeast of New Zealand's North Island...
. Gusts to 50 knots (98 km/h) were recorded on Viti Levu
Viti Levu
Viti Levu is the largest island in the Republic of Fiji, the site of the nation's capital, Suva, and home to a large majority of Fiji's population.- Geography and economy :...
on Fiji, even though Jo was about 445 km (275 mi) away from the Fiji. Flash flooding was reported, but there was no major river flooding. Cyclone Jo was declared extratropical on 28 January at 0600 (UTC) when located more than 1000 nmi (1,852 km) east of North Island
North Island
The North Island is one of the two main islands of New Zealand, separated from the much less populous South Island by Cook Strait. The island is in area, making it the world's 14th-largest island...
in New Zealand
New Zealand
New Zealand is an island country in the south-western Pacific Ocean comprising two main landmasses and numerous smaller islands. The country is situated some east of Australia across the Tasman Sea, and roughly south of the Pacific island nations of New Caledonia, Fiji, and Tonga...
.
Severe Tropical Cyclone Kim
Cyclone Kim formed south east of French PolynesiaFrench Polynesia
French Polynesia is an overseas country of the French Republic . It is made up of several groups of Polynesian islands, the most famous island being Tahiti in the Society Islands group, which is also the most populous island and the seat of the capital of the territory...
on February 23, 2000. It initially developed little but late on 24 February, the depression developed rapidly, and the storm reached tropical storm strength at 1800 (UTC), named Tropical Cyclone Kim. It was located about 75 km (45 mi) west of Rikitea
Rikitea
Rikitea is a village located on Mangareva island. It is the chief town of the Gambier Islands, French Polynesia. It is served by the Totegegie Airport....
or about 125 km (75 mi) southeast of Mururoa. Cyclone Kim reached hurricane strength on 25 February, only 18 hours after being named, while moving to the south-west. The storm reached its peak intensity of 80 knots (156.8 km/h) on 26 February at 1200 (UTC), located more than 1295 km (805 mi) east of Tahiti
Tahiti
Tahiti is the largest island in the Windward group of French Polynesia, located in the archipelago of the Society Islands in the southern Pacific Ocean. It is the economic, cultural and political centre of French Polynesia. The island was formed from volcanic activity and is high and mountainous...
. Minimum pressure at this time was 955 mbar. The estimated 1-min average winds from NPMOC was 100 knots (196 km/h). Kim gradually weakened over cooler waters, still moving to the south-west. Cyclone Kim became extratropical south of Tahiti
Tahiti
Tahiti is the largest island in the Windward group of French Polynesia, located in the archipelago of the Society Islands in the southern Pacific Ocean. It is the economic, cultural and political centre of French Polynesia. The island was formed from volcanic activity and is high and mountainous...
on February 29 at 0600 (UTC).
Damage from Kim was minimal from Rikitea
Rikitea
Rikitea is a village located on Mangareva island. It is the chief town of the Gambier Islands, French Polynesia. It is served by the Totegegie Airport....
, since it was only a depression at the time. The island recorded 10-min average winds of 27 knots (52.9 km/h), with a peak gust of 52 knots (101.9 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 996 mbar. As a hurricane, the island of Rapa Iti
Rapa Iti
Rapa or Rapa Iti as it is sometimes called in more recent years , is the largest and only inhabited island of the Bass Islands in French Polynesia. An older name for the island is Oparo Its area is 40 km2 with a population of almost 500 and a max elevation of 650 m...
recorded a gust of 74 knots (145 km/h), when Kim was 150 km (90 mi) away from the island. A pressure of 995.8 mbar was recorded. Overall, damage in French Polynesia
French Polynesia
French Polynesia is an overseas country of the French Republic . It is made up of several groups of Polynesian islands, the most famous island being Tahiti in the Society Islands group, which is also the most populous island and the seat of the capital of the territory...
was minor.
Tropical Cyclone Leo
Tropical Depression 14F was first identified on 4 March at 0600 UTC, almost stationary, and located 110 km (70 mi) west-northwest of French PolynesiaFrench Polynesia
French Polynesia is an overseas country of the French Republic . It is made up of several groups of Polynesian islands, the most famous island being Tahiti in the Society Islands group, which is also the most populous island and the seat of the capital of the territory...
. The depression drifted south-westward in the next 24 hours. The first gale warning was issued at 0000 UTC on the 5th, located 555 km (345 mi) west-southwest of Tahiti
Tahiti
Tahiti is the largest island in the Windward group of French Polynesia, located in the archipelago of the Society Islands in the southern Pacific Ocean. It is the economic, cultural and political centre of French Polynesia. The island was formed from volcanic activity and is high and mountainous...
. The depression moved through the southern Cook Islands
Cook Islands
The Cook Islands is a self-governing parliamentary democracy in the South Pacific Ocean in free association with New Zealand...
and slowly developed, but suddenly developed explosively on 6 March at 0600 UTC while located near Rarotonga
Rarotonga
Rarotonga is the most populous island of the Cook Islands, with a population of 14,153 , out of the country's total population of 19,569.The Cook Islands' Parliament buildings and international airport are on Rarotonga...
. It was named Leo at 1200 UTC on the 6th. It accelerated to the south-southwest and reached a peak intensity of 50 knots (98 km/h) on the 7th at 0000 UTC. After 1800 UTC, Leo recurved to the southeast and became extratropical six hours later. Although, Leo moved over the island of Mangaia
Mangaia
Mangaia is the most southerly of the Cook Islands and the second largest, after Rarotonga.-Geography:...
, any damage was minor.
Severe Tropical Cyclone Mona
As Leo was developing, a new disturbance formed south of Apia in Western Samoa. The first gale warning was issued on 7 March as it moved closer to northern TongaTonga
Tonga, officially the Kingdom of Tonga , is a state and an archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, comprising 176 islands scattered over of ocean in the South Pacific...
. Wind warnings were issued for some islands in Tonga including Vavau, Haapai and Tongatapu
Tongatapu
Tongatapu is the main island of the Kingdom of Tonga and the location of its capital Nukualofa. It is located in Tonga's southern island group, to which it gives its name, and is the country's most populous island, with approximately 71,260 residents , 70.5% of the national population...
. The storm rapidly developed on 8 March at 0600 UTC, and was named Tropical Cyclone Mona six hours later, while located 75 km (45 mi) west of Haapai and moving slowly southward. A storm warning was put for the whole Tongatapu Group on the 8th. An eye developed on 9 March, and Mona was upgraded to hurricane intensity at 0600 UTC, located 55 km (35 mi) west of Tongatapu
Tongatapu
Tongatapu is the main island of the Kingdom of Tonga and the location of its capital Nukualofa. It is located in Tonga's southern island group, to which it gives its name, and is the country's most populous island, with approximately 71,260 residents , 70.5% of the national population...
. Mona moved south-southeastward and accelerated. It reached an intensity of 75 knots (147 km/h) on 10 March, 370 km (230 mi) southeast of Tongatapu. NPMOC's 1-min winds were estimated at 80 knots (156.8 km/h). Minimum pressure of Mona was 965 mbar. It began to weaken rapidly, as it sped off southwards, and became extratropical on 11 March at 1200 UTC.
In the Vavau and Haapai groups, there was damage to crops, particularly to banana and coconut plantations. There was moderate damage to houses and school buildings in Tongatapu. The unofficial damage assessment, according to the Tongan National Disaster Management Office, totalled Tongan $6 million. A police patrol boat sank off Eua Island in the Tongatapu group.
Tropical Cyclone Neil
The sixth and last cyclone was first identified northeast of FijiFiji
Fiji , officially the Republic of Fiji , is an island nation in Melanesia in the South Pacific Ocean about northeast of New Zealand's North Island...
on 12 April. It moved to the south-west while continually strengthening. By the 15 April the potential for development to a cyclone was considered "high" by RSMC Nadi. At 1700 UTC, it was named Tropical Cyclone Neil, located 150 km (90 mi) southeast of Kadavu
Kadavu
Kadavu , with an area of , is the fourth largest island in Fiji, and the largest island in the Kadavu Group, a volcanic archipelago consisting of Kadavu, Ono, Galoa and a number of smaller islands in the Great Astrolabe Reef...
. It moved slowly southward, but on 16 April at 1200 UTC, it was downgraded to a tropical depression.
Damage from Neil was minimal. Kadavu
Kadavu
Kadavu , with an area of , is the fourth largest island in Fiji, and the largest island in the Kadavu Group, a volcanic archipelago consisting of Kadavu, Ono, Galoa and a number of smaller islands in the Great Astrolabe Reef...
and Ono-i-Lau
Ono-i-Lau
Ono-i-Lau is a volcanic and coral island in Fiji's Lau archipelago.One of the southernmost of the Lau Islands, it is located at 20.80° South and 178.75° East, and occupies an area of 7.9 square kilometers. It has a maximum elevation of 113 meters. It is 90 kilometers southsouthwest of Vatoa, the...
in Fiji reported gales from Neil, while torrential rain was experienced over some parts of Fiji
Fiji
Fiji , officially the Republic of Fiji , is an island nation in Melanesia in the South Pacific Ocean about northeast of New Zealand's North Island...
. There was one fatality due to drowning, but not directly associated with the cyclone.
Storm names
South Pacific tropical cyclones are usually assigned names by the RSMCRegional Specialized Meteorological Centre
A Regional Specialized Meteorological Centre is responsible for the distribution of information, advisories, and warnings regarding the specific program they have a part of, agreed by consensus at the World Meteorological Organization as part of the World Weather Watch.-Tropical...
in Nadi, or Fiji Meteorological Service
Fiji Meteorological Service
The Fiji Meteorological Service is a Department of the government of Fiji responsible for providing weather forecasts and is based in Nadi. Since 1995, FMS has been responsible for naming and tracking tropical cyclones in the Southwest Pacific region...
. As soon as a tropical depression becomes a tropical cyclone it is named by the warning centre having responsibility for it at that time. If a tropical depression becomes a tropical cyclone in the Wellington RSMC area of responsibility, MetService
Meteorological Service of New Zealand Limited
Meteorological Service of New Zealand Limited was established as a State-Owned Enterprise in 1992. It employs about 215 staff and its headquarters are in Wellington, New Zealand...
, in consultation with RSMC Nadi, will name the cyclone by using the next name from the list.
{|width="90%"
|
The 1999-00 South Pacific tropical cyclone season was an event in the annual cycle of tropical cyclone
Tropical cyclone
A tropical cyclone is a storm system characterized by a large low-pressure center and numerous thunderstorms that produce strong winds and heavy rain. Tropical cyclones strengthen when water evaporated from the ocean is released as the saturated air rises, resulting in condensation of water vapor...
formation and ran from November 1, 1999 to April 30, 2000 in the South Pacific.
It should also be noted that the regional tropical cyclone operational plan defines a "tropical cyclone year" separately from a "tropical cyclone season", with the "tropical cyclone year" for this season lasting from July 1, 1999 to June 30, 2000.
All of the six named storms affected land in some way, but no major damage was reported from any of the storms.
Severe Tropical Cyclone Iris
A disturbance was identified on 3 January at 0600 (UTC) near Espiritu Santo in VanuatuVanuatu
Vanuatu , officially the Republic of Vanuatu , is an island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean. The archipelago, which is of volcanic origin, is some east of northern Australia, northeast of New Caledonia, west of Fiji, and southeast of the Solomon Islands, near New Guinea.Vanuatu was...
. The storm was difficult to locate the general centre for the next couple of days, but on 6 January, it became more organised, while displaying midget characteristics. On 7 January at 2100 (UTC), it was named Tropical Cyclone Iris, located 330 km (205 mi) northwest of Port Vila
Port Vila
Port Vila is the capital and largest city of Vanuatu. Situated on the south coast of the island of Efate, in Shefa Province, the city population at last was 29,356, an increase of 55% on the previous census result . This suggests a 2007 population of about 40,000 or around 65% of the province's...
, moving southeast. In Vila, 110 km (70 mi) away from Iris's centre, recorded winds of only up to 20 knots (39.2 km/h), explaining the very small size of the cyclone. Iris intensified with 10-min winds increasing to 60 knots (117.6 km/h) on 8 January at 1200 (UTC). JTWC's estimated 1-min winds was 65 knots (127.4 km/h). There were some indications that Iris could be far more intense than what the warning centres estimated, mainly due to its small size. Iris accelerated eastward, leaving Vanuatu. On 9 January, Iris began its weakening trend, while moving closer to Fiji
Fiji
Fiji , officially the Republic of Fiji , is an island nation in Melanesia in the South Pacific Ocean about northeast of New Zealand's North Island...
. Iris was downgraded to a depression on 10 January, just 48 hours after it had reached its peak intensity. The final warning placed the centre on the Dateline 150 nmi (277.8 km) southeast of Fiji.
Fresh to strong winds and very rough seas were experienced over the western and southern parts of Fiji. Overall damage was minimal. Cyclone Iris was most notable for its rapid strengthening in its early stages, followed by its rapid decay.
Severe Tropical Cyclone Jo
A disturbance was first identified over northern parts of VanuatuVanuatu
Vanuatu , officially the Republic of Vanuatu , is an island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean. The archipelago, which is of volcanic origin, is some east of northern Australia, northeast of New Caledonia, west of Fiji, and southeast of the Solomon Islands, near New Guinea.Vanuatu was...
on 19 January. It developed slowly, but deepened quickly on 22 January, and advisories were issued on the system on 23 January. It moved southward and was upgraded to Tropical Cyclone Jo on 24 January at 0300 (UTC). Jo moved to the south-east and attained storm force winds 15 hours after being named. The cyclone reached its peak intensity on 26 January at 0000 (UTC) located 650 km (400 mi) south of Nadi
Nadi
Nadi is the third-largest conurbation in Fiji. It is located on the western side of the main island of Viti Levu, and had a population of 42,284 at the most recent census, in 2007. Nadi is multiracial with many of its inhabitants Indian or Fijian, along with a large transient population of foreign...
, with 10-min average winds of 60 knots (117.6 km/h). JTWC's peak 1-min average winds were 65 knots (127.4 km/h). Jo moved further to the south-east, and moved close enough to affect Fiji
Fiji
Fiji , officially the Republic of Fiji , is an island nation in Melanesia in the South Pacific Ocean about northeast of New Zealand's North Island...
. Gusts to 50 knots (98 km/h) were recorded on Viti Levu
Viti Levu
Viti Levu is the largest island in the Republic of Fiji, the site of the nation's capital, Suva, and home to a large majority of Fiji's population.- Geography and economy :...
on Fiji, even though Jo was about 445 km (275 mi) away from the Fiji. Flash flooding was reported, but there was no major river flooding. Cyclone Jo was declared extratropical on 28 January at 0600 (UTC) when located more than 1000 nmi (1,852 km) east of North Island
North Island
The North Island is one of the two main islands of New Zealand, separated from the much less populous South Island by Cook Strait. The island is in area, making it the world's 14th-largest island...
in New Zealand
New Zealand
New Zealand is an island country in the south-western Pacific Ocean comprising two main landmasses and numerous smaller islands. The country is situated some east of Australia across the Tasman Sea, and roughly south of the Pacific island nations of New Caledonia, Fiji, and Tonga...
.
Severe Tropical Cyclone Kim
Cyclone Kim formed south east of French PolynesiaFrench Polynesia
French Polynesia is an overseas country of the French Republic . It is made up of several groups of Polynesian islands, the most famous island being Tahiti in the Society Islands group, which is also the most populous island and the seat of the capital of the territory...
on February 23, 2000. It initially developed little but late on 24 February, the depression developed rapidly, and the storm reached tropical storm strength at 1800 (UTC), named Tropical Cyclone Kim. It was located about 75 km (45 mi) west of Rikitea
Rikitea
Rikitea is a village located on Mangareva island. It is the chief town of the Gambier Islands, French Polynesia. It is served by the Totegegie Airport....
or about 125 km (75 mi) southeast of Mururoa. Cyclone Kim reached hurricane strength on 25 February, only 18 hours after being named, while moving to the south-west. The storm reached its peak intensity of 80 knots (156.8 km/h) on 26 February at 1200 (UTC), located more than 1295 km (805 mi) east of Tahiti
Tahiti
Tahiti is the largest island in the Windward group of French Polynesia, located in the archipelago of the Society Islands in the southern Pacific Ocean. It is the economic, cultural and political centre of French Polynesia. The island was formed from volcanic activity and is high and mountainous...
. Minimum pressure at this time was 955 mbar. The estimated 1-min average winds from NPMOC was 100 knots (196 km/h). Kim gradually weakened over cooler waters, still moving to the south-west. Cyclone Kim became extratropical south of Tahiti
Tahiti
Tahiti is the largest island in the Windward group of French Polynesia, located in the archipelago of the Society Islands in the southern Pacific Ocean. It is the economic, cultural and political centre of French Polynesia. The island was formed from volcanic activity and is high and mountainous...
on February 29 at 0600 (UTC).
Damage from Kim was minimal from Rikitea
Rikitea
Rikitea is a village located on Mangareva island. It is the chief town of the Gambier Islands, French Polynesia. It is served by the Totegegie Airport....
, since it was only a depression at the time. The island recorded 10-min average winds of 27 knots (52.9 km/h), with a peak gust of 52 knots (101.9 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 996 mbar. As a hurricane, the island of Rapa Iti
Rapa Iti
Rapa or Rapa Iti as it is sometimes called in more recent years , is the largest and only inhabited island of the Bass Islands in French Polynesia. An older name for the island is Oparo Its area is 40 km2 with a population of almost 500 and a max elevation of 650 m...
recorded a gust of 74 knots (145 km/h), when Kim was 150 km (90 mi) away from the island. A pressure of 995.8 mbar was recorded. Overall, damage in French Polynesia
French Polynesia
French Polynesia is an overseas country of the French Republic . It is made up of several groups of Polynesian islands, the most famous island being Tahiti in the Society Islands group, which is also the most populous island and the seat of the capital of the territory...
was minor.
Tropical Cyclone Leo
Tropical Depression 14F was first identified on 4 March at 0600 UTC, almost stationary, and located 110 km (70 mi) west-northwest of French PolynesiaFrench Polynesia
French Polynesia is an overseas country of the French Republic . It is made up of several groups of Polynesian islands, the most famous island being Tahiti in the Society Islands group, which is also the most populous island and the seat of the capital of the territory...
. The depression drifted south-westward in the next 24 hours. The first gale warning was issued at 0000 UTC on the 5th, located 555 km (345 mi) west-southwest of Tahiti
Tahiti
Tahiti is the largest island in the Windward group of French Polynesia, located in the archipelago of the Society Islands in the southern Pacific Ocean. It is the economic, cultural and political centre of French Polynesia. The island was formed from volcanic activity and is high and mountainous...
. The depression moved through the southern Cook Islands
Cook Islands
The Cook Islands is a self-governing parliamentary democracy in the South Pacific Ocean in free association with New Zealand...
and slowly developed, but suddenly developed explosively on 6 March at 0600 UTC while located near Rarotonga
Rarotonga
Rarotonga is the most populous island of the Cook Islands, with a population of 14,153 , out of the country's total population of 19,569.The Cook Islands' Parliament buildings and international airport are on Rarotonga...
. It was named Leo at 1200 UTC on the 6th. It accelerated to the south-southwest and reached a peak intensity of 50 knots (98 km/h) on the 7th at 0000 UTC. After 1800 UTC, Leo recurved to the southeast and became extratropical six hours later. Although, Leo moved over the island of Mangaia
Mangaia
Mangaia is the most southerly of the Cook Islands and the second largest, after Rarotonga.-Geography:...
, any damage was minor.
Severe Tropical Cyclone Mona
As Leo was developing, a new disturbance formed south of Apia in Western Samoa. The first gale warning was issued on 7 March as it moved closer to northern TongaTonga
Tonga, officially the Kingdom of Tonga , is a state and an archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, comprising 176 islands scattered over of ocean in the South Pacific...
. Wind warnings were issued for some islands in Tonga including Vavau, Haapai and Tongatapu
Tongatapu
Tongatapu is the main island of the Kingdom of Tonga and the location of its capital Nukualofa. It is located in Tonga's southern island group, to which it gives its name, and is the country's most populous island, with approximately 71,260 residents , 70.5% of the national population...
. The storm rapidly developed on 8 March at 0600 UTC, and was named Tropical Cyclone Mona six hours later, while located 75 km (45 mi) west of Haapai and moving slowly southward. A storm warning was put for the whole Tongatapu Group on the 8th. An eye developed on 9 March, and Mona was upgraded to hurricane intensity at 0600 UTC, located 55 km (35 mi) west of Tongatapu
Tongatapu
Tongatapu is the main island of the Kingdom of Tonga and the location of its capital Nukualofa. It is located in Tonga's southern island group, to which it gives its name, and is the country's most populous island, with approximately 71,260 residents , 70.5% of the national population...
. Mona moved south-southeastward and accelerated. It reached an intensity of 75 knots (147 km/h) on 10 March, 370 km (230 mi) southeast of Tongatapu. NPMOC's 1-min winds were estimated at 80 knots (156.8 km/h). Minimum pressure of Mona was 965 mbar. It began to weaken rapidly, as it sped off southwards, and became extratropical on 11 March at 1200 UTC.
In the Vavau and Haapai groups, there was damage to crops, particularly to banana and coconut plantations. There was moderate damage to houses and school buildings in Tongatapu. The unofficial damage assessment, according to the Tongan National Disaster Management Office, totalled Tongan $6 million. A police patrol boat sank off Eua Island in the Tongatapu group.
Tropical Cyclone Neil
The sixth and last cyclone was first identified northeast of FijiFiji
Fiji , officially the Republic of Fiji , is an island nation in Melanesia in the South Pacific Ocean about northeast of New Zealand's North Island...
on 12 April. It moved to the south-west while continually strengthening. By the 15 April the potential for development to a cyclone was considered "high" by RSMC Nadi. At 1700 UTC, it was named Tropical Cyclone Neil, located 150 km (90 mi) southeast of Kadavu
Kadavu
Kadavu , with an area of , is the fourth largest island in Fiji, and the largest island in the Kadavu Group, a volcanic archipelago consisting of Kadavu, Ono, Galoa and a number of smaller islands in the Great Astrolabe Reef...
. It moved slowly southward, but on 16 April at 1200 UTC, it was downgraded to a tropical depression.
Damage from Neil was minimal. Kadavu
Kadavu
Kadavu , with an area of , is the fourth largest island in Fiji, and the largest island in the Kadavu Group, a volcanic archipelago consisting of Kadavu, Ono, Galoa and a number of smaller islands in the Great Astrolabe Reef...
and Ono-i-Lau
Ono-i-Lau
Ono-i-Lau is a volcanic and coral island in Fiji's Lau archipelago.One of the southernmost of the Lau Islands, it is located at 20.80° South and 178.75° East, and occupies an area of 7.9 square kilometers. It has a maximum elevation of 113 meters. It is 90 kilometers southsouthwest of Vatoa, the...
in Fiji reported gales from Neil, while torrential rain was experienced over some parts of Fiji
Fiji
Fiji , officially the Republic of Fiji , is an island nation in Melanesia in the South Pacific Ocean about northeast of New Zealand's North Island...
. There was one fatality due to drowning, but not directly associated with the cyclone.
Storm names
South Pacific tropical cyclones are usually assigned names by the RSMCRegional Specialized Meteorological Centre
A Regional Specialized Meteorological Centre is responsible for the distribution of information, advisories, and warnings regarding the specific program they have a part of, agreed by consensus at the World Meteorological Organization as part of the World Weather Watch.-Tropical...
in Nadi, or Fiji Meteorological Service
Fiji Meteorological Service
The Fiji Meteorological Service is a Department of the government of Fiji responsible for providing weather forecasts and is based in Nadi. Since 1995, FMS has been responsible for naming and tracking tropical cyclones in the Southwest Pacific region...
. As soon as a tropical depression becomes a tropical cyclone it is named by the warning centre having responsibility for it at that time. If a tropical depression becomes a tropical cyclone in the Wellington RSMC area of responsibility, MetService
Meteorological Service of New Zealand Limited
Meteorological Service of New Zealand Limited was established as a State-Owned Enterprise in 1992. It employs about 215 staff and its headquarters are in Wellington, New Zealand...
, in consultation with RSMC Nadi, will name the cyclone by using the next name from the list.
{|width="90%"
|
- AmiBeniCillaDoviEsetaFiliGinaHetaIvyJudyKerryLolaMeena
|- NancyOlafPercyRaeSheilaTamUrmilVaianuWatiXavierYaniZita
|- ArthurBeckyCliffDamanElisaFunaGeneHettieInnisJoniKenLin
|- MickNishaOliPatReneSarahTomasUshaVaniaWilmaYasiZaka
|- AtuBuneCyrilDaphneEvanFredaGarryHeleneIanJuneKokoLusi
|- MikeNuteOdilePamReubenSoloTuniUlaVictorWinstonYaloZena
|- AmosBartCoraDaniEllaFrankGitaHali
- Iris
- Jo
- Kim
- Leo
|- Mona
- Neil
- OmaPaulaRitaSamTrinaUkaVickyWalterYolandeZoe
|}
See also
- List of Southern Hemisphere tropical cyclone seasons
- Atlantic hurricane seasons: 19991999 Atlantic hurricane seasonThe 1999 Atlantic hurricane season officially began on June 1, 1999, and lasted until November 30, 1999. These dates conventionally delimit the period of each year when most tropical cyclones form in the Atlantic basin....
, 20002000 Atlantic hurricane seasonThe 2000 Atlantic hurricane season was the first season without a tropical cyclone in July since 1987. The season officially began on June 1, 2000, and lasted until November 30, 2000. The June through November dates conventionally delimit the period of each year when most tropical cyclones form in... - Pacific hurricane seasons: 19991999 Pacific hurricane seasonThe 1999 Pacific hurricane season officially started on May 15, 1999 in the eastern Pacific, and on June 1, 1999 in the central Pacific, and lasted until November 30, 1999. These dates conventionally delimit the period of each year when most tropical cyclones form in the northeastern Pacific...
, 20002000 Pacific hurricane seasonThe 2000 Pacific hurricane season was an event in tropical cyclone meteorology. There were few notable storms this year. Tropical Storms Miriam, Norman, and Rosa all made landfall in Mexico with minimal impact. Hurricane Daniel briefly threatened the U.S. state of Hawaii while weakening... - Pacific typhoon seasons: 19991999 Pacific typhoon seasonThe 1999 Pacific typhoon season has no official bounds; it ran year-round in 1999, but most tropical cyclones tend to form in the northwestern Pacific Ocean between May and November...
, 20002000 Pacific typhoon seasonThe 2000 Pacific typhoon season has no official bounds; it ran year-round in 2000, but most tropical cyclones tend to form in the northwestern Pacific Ocean between May and November... - North Indian Ocean cyclone seasons: 19991999 North Indian Ocean cyclone seasonThe 1999 North Indian Ocean cyclone season was an event in the annual cycle of tropical cyclone formation. The North Indian Ocean cyclone season has no official bounds, but cyclones tend to form between April and December, with peaks in May and November...
, 20002000 North Indian Ocean cyclone seasonThe 2000 North Indian Ocean cyclone season had no bounds, but cyclones tend to form between April and December, with peaks in May and November. These dates conventionally delimit the period of each year when most tropical cyclones form in the northern Indian Ocean.-Season summary:Six tropical...
External links
