&sq=Facebook&lang=en&file=File:Martin_1997-11-03_0000Z.png) Cyclone Martin near peak intensity south of Manahiki on November 3 | |
| Meteorological history | |
|---|---|
| Formed | October 27, 1997 |
| Dissipated | November 5, 1997 |
| Category 3 severe tropical cyclone | |
| 10-minute sustained (FMS) | |
| Highest winds | 155 km/h (100 mph) |
| Lowest pressure | 945 hPa (mbar); 27.91 inHg |
| Category 3-equivalent tropical cyclone | |
| 1-minute sustained (SSHWS/NPMOC) | |
| Highest winds | 185 km/h (115 mph) |
| Overall effects | |
| Fatalities | 28 |
| Damage | $8 million (1997 USD) |
| Areas affected | Cook Islands, French Polynesia |
| IBTrACS | |
Part of the 1997–98 South Pacific cyclone season | |
Severe Tropical Cyclone Martin was the deadliest tropical cyclone of the 1997–98 South Pacific cyclone season. The system was first noted as a weak tropical disturbance on October 27, to the north of the Northern Cook Islands. Over the next few days atmospheric convection surrounding the system remained disorganized, as it moved towards the southwest and was affected by strong upper-level north-easterly winds and moderate to strong vertical wind shear. The system was subsequently named Martin during October 31, after it had rapidly developed further and shown a marked improvement organization.