ABSTRACT: Forecasting of hurricane paths and severity has significantly improved over time, but recent major storms have demonstrated rapid intensification just prior to making landfall. This sudden increase in severity can be difficult to manage as evacuation orders need to be specific and timely to minimize loss of life and allow time for property defense and adequate mobilization of emergency response personnel.
Rapid intensification is becoming more common due to favorable climate conditions for hurricanes, such as warmer sea surface temperatures due to global warming. Using these temperatures which are visible on satellite imagery to forecast rapid intensification can provide critical lead time for hurricane management, thus saving lives and limiting loses with improved timeliness and preparedness.