&sq=&lang=&file=File:Epsilon_2005-12-05_1545Z.jpg) Epsilon shortly after peak intensity on December 5 | |
| Meteorological history | |
|---|---|
| Formed | November 29, 2005 |
| Remnant low | December 8, 2005 |
| Dissipated | December 10, 2005 |
| Category 1 hurricane | |
| 1-minute sustained (SSHWS/NWS) | |
| Highest winds | 85 mph (140 km/h) |
| Lowest pressure | 981 mbar (hPa); 28.97 inHg |
| Overall effects | |
| Fatalities | None |
| Damage | None |
| IBTrACS | |
Part of the 2005 Atlantic hurricane season | |
Hurricane Epsilon was the twenty-seventh named tropical or subtropical storm and the final of 15 hurricanes in the record-breaking 2005 Atlantic hurricane season. Originating from a cold front beneath an upper-level low, Epsilon formed on November 29 about 915 mi (1470 km) east of Bermuda, becoming the second tropical storm to do so in that area of the Atlantic within the span of a week. Initially, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) forecast the storm to transition into an extratropical cyclone within five days, due to conditions unfavorable for significant intensification. Epsilon continually defied forecasts, at first due to an unexpected loop to the southwest, and later due to retaining its strength despite cold waters and strong wind shear.
Epsilon persisted into December, extending the 2005 season beyond its stated November 30 end date.[1] On December 1, it began a northeast motion due to an approaching trough, and the next day it attained hurricane status. After turning to the east, it developed characteristics of an annular hurricane, meaning it had a circular eye, a ring of intense convection, and had few fluctuations in its intensity. On December 5 Epsilon attained peak winds of 85 mph (140 km/h), and the next day it turned to the south and southwest. Late on December 7, the winds dropped below hurricane status for the first time in five days, making Epsilon the longest-lasting December hurricane on record. Stronger wind shear caused rapid weakening, and the storm could no longer be classified as a tropical cyclone late on December 8. The next day the remnant circulation of Epsilon dissipated. Since Epsilon stayed well out to sea and never approached land, no warnings or watches were issued. No ships reported tropical storm force winds from Epsilon and there were no damages or fatalities.[2]
- ^ Dorst, Neal (June 1, 2018). "Hurricane Season Information". Frequently Asked Questions About Hurricanes. Miami, Florida: NOAA Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory. Retrieved October 5, 2020.
- ^ James L. Franklin (January 7, 2006). Tropical Cyclone Report Hurricane Epsilon (PDF) (Report). Miami, Florida: National Hurricane Center. Retrieved October 5, 2020.