COMET Case Study 024: East Coast Explosive Cyclogenesis

Project Dates
January 19, 2000 to January 26, 2000

Project Description
Case 024 follows the formation and rapid intensification of a cyclone off of the southeastern U.S. coastline. The storm moved almost due north, affecting nearly the entire eastern seaboard. In retrospect, this storm's intensity and position was difficult for the models to predict accurately, posing a forecasting challenge for NWS offices in the affected region. Heavy snow fell from the Carolinas, through the Washington D.C. area, and into New England, with at least 5 deaths reported. Record snowfall amounts fell across North Carolina, with the Raleigh-Durham area most affected.

Objectives
The case provides an example of rapid cyclogenesis off the southeast U.S. coast and its associated Northeaster. The data is being made available for in-depth study due to great interest from the meteorological community.

Data Access for COMET Case Study 024