southern pacific Tropical Cyclone Solo

[Somerset Squall]

Tropical Cyclone Solo has formed about 550 miles northwest of Noumea, New Caledonia. Solo has winds of 45kts according to JTWC. Solo has developed rapidly, with the LLC spinning up quickly from yesterday. Shear is low and waters warm, so Solo should continue to intensify. The cyclone is moving southwestwards currently along the northwestern side of a ridge to the southeast. This motion will not last long however, as a mid-lattitude trough is expected to weaken the ridge, making Solo recurve to the southeast. On this track, Solo would impact New Caledonia a few days.

Edited April 10, 2015 by Somerset Squall

[Somerset Squall]

Solo has strengthened to 55kts on approach to New Caledonia. Shear has started to increase, so Solo has probably peaked. After Solo clears New Caledonia, shear will rise still further, beginning a pronounced weakening trend.

[Somerset Squall]

Solo is no longer a tropical cyclone. Shear destroyed the cyclone as it skirted New Caledonia. Very heavy rains have affected the country however. Regeneration is not expected.

Edited April 12, 2015 by Somerset Squall