Hurricane Raymond (2013)

Hurricane Raymond (2013) was a powerful and long-lived hurricane that impacted the southwestern coast of Mexico in October 2013. It formed from a tropical wave that emerged off the coast of Africa and eventually strengthened into a major hurricane in the eastern Pacific Ocean.

Formation and Development

Raymond's origins trace back to a tropical wave that moved westward across the Atlantic and into the Caribbean Sea. This wave continued westward, eventually entering the eastern Pacific Ocean. Favorable atmospheric conditions, including warm sea surface temperatures and low wind shear, allowed for the wave to develop into a tropical depression on October 16. The depression steadily strengthened, becoming Tropical Storm Raymond on October 17 and then Hurricane Raymond on October 18.

Peak Intensity and Track

Raymond rapidly intensified, becoming a Category 4 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson hurricane wind scale. It maintained this strength for several days, making it a particularly significant event. The hurricane tracked generally westward, remaining offshore. While it did not make landfall as a major hurricane, it passed close enough to the coast of Mexico to generate significant impacts.

Impacts

Raymond brought heavy rainfall and strong winds to southwestern Mexico, leading to flooding, landslides, and significant damage. The exact figures for damage and casualties vary depending on the source, but reports indicate considerable disruption and economic losses. Many coastal communities experienced severe weather conditions related to the storm's close proximity. The strong winds also led to power outages in affected areas.

Weakening and Dissipation

Raymond eventually began to weaken as it interacted with land and cooler sea surface temperatures. It gradually transitioned into a tropical storm and then a remnant low, eventually dissipating over land.

References

Further research is needed to cite specific sources regarding the impacts and details of Hurricane Raymond (2013).