Skip to Content

A look into the timescale of the remnants of Otis

In a matter of 24 hours, a tropical storm grew to become a Category 5 hurricane. This would add extreme damage to Acapulco Mexico as damaging winds, storm surge, and flooding would devastate the area.

Tuesday morning the 24th saw an approaching tropical storm rapidly approaching form the Eastern Pacific. Just before 1 PM Tuesday afternoon, the National Hurricane Center would upgrade Otis to a category one hurricane as wind speeds would break 74 mph.

Due to a steep increase in sea surface temperatures near the coast of Acapulco, Otis would continue to increase its winds up to 165 mph within a 12 hour time period becoming a major Category 5 hurricane just before 10 PM (CDT).

In comparison, these winds speeds would mimic a EF-3 tornado, meaning the chance for widespread damage and even the potential for loss of life would increase.

Article Topic Follows: Weather

Jump to comments ↓

Author Profile Photo

Chance Gotsch

Chance Gotsch grew up just south of St. Louis and moved to Columbia to attend the University of Missouri to pursue a degree in Atmospheric Sciences.

His interest in weather begin as a child when he used to be afraid of storms.

Chance joined the ABC 17 Stormtrack Weather Team in February 2021. He is currently the weekday noon meteorologist.

BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION

ABC 17 News is committed to providing a forum for civil and constructive conversation.

Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. You can review our Community Guidelines by clicking here

If you would like to share a story idea, please submit it here.

Skip to content