central pacific Tropical Depression 08C

[Somerset Squall]

Yet another tropical depression in this crazy Central Pacific season has formed well to the west-southwest of Hawaii. 08C has winds of 30kts. The depression consists of a closed low level circulation just about tucked in on the south side of a large mass of convection. Moderate southerly shear is displacing most of the convection to the north. Shear is not expected to significantly ease over the next few days, and models are not keen on strengthening 08C, or dissipating it either. Therefore, the CPHC forecast keeps 08C a tropical depression for the next 5 days as it moves westwards and eventually into the Western Pacific (yes, another basin crosser if 08C survives long enough!).

[Somerset Squall]

08C degenerated into a remnant low yesterday afternoon as strong shear prevented convection from persisting over the LLCC. Since degeneration, some convection has fired to the north of the LLCC, but centre itself has remained completely exposed. Strong shear is expected to continue over the next day or two, but could ease after that time. So there is a small chance of regeneration if there is anything left of the low at this point.