Hurricane Dolores (1974)

Hurricane Dolores was a moderately strong tropical cyclone that formed in the Eastern Pacific Ocean during the 1974 hurricane season. It was the fourth named storm and second hurricane of the season. Dolores developed from a tropical disturbance off the coast of Mexico in late June 1974.

Meteorological History:

The initial tropical disturbance gradually organized as it moved westward. It strengthened into Tropical Storm Dolores on June 16th. Continuing to intensify, Dolores reached hurricane status shortly thereafter. At its peak intensity, Dolores had estimated sustained winds of 100 mph (160 km/h) and a minimum central pressure of 979 mbar.

After reaching peak intensity, Dolores began to weaken as it moved over cooler waters. The hurricane eventually degenerated into a tropical storm and subsequently a tropical depression. Dolores dissipated completely on June 20th, far from land.

Impact:

Because Hurricane Dolores remained well offshore, its impacts were minimal. There were no reports of damage or casualties associated with the storm. Some minor swells were reported along the Mexican coastline.

Records and Distinctions:

While not an exceptionally powerful or long-lived storm, Hurricane Dolores (1974) remains a part of the historical record of Eastern Pacific tropical cyclones. Its relatively early formation in the season is notable, although not unprecedented.