Tropical Storm Hermine (2010) facts for kids
| Tropical Storm (SSHWS/NWS) | |
Tropical Storm Hermine well inland, while still at tropical storm intensity.
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| Formed | September 3, 2010 |
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| Dissipated | September 9, 2010 |
| Highest winds | 1-minute sustained: 70 mph (110 km/h) |
| Lowest pressure | 989 mbar (hPa); 29.21 inHg |
| Fatalities | 52 direct, 50 indirect (100 more feared dead) |
| Damage | $740 million (2010 USD) |
| Areas affected | Central America, Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma |
| Part of the 2010 Pacific hurricane season and 2010 Atlantic hurricane season | |
Tropical Storm Hermine was a unique weather event in 2010. It started as a storm in the Pacific Ocean, then crossed over land and became a new storm in the Atlantic Ocean. This doesn't happen very often!
The storm first hit Mexico near a place called Salina Cruz. It then weakened into just a low-pressure system. But it didn't stop there. As it moved north, it grew stronger and became Tropical Storm Hermine. It then hit northeastern Mexico. Hermine kept moving north into the United States, reaching Texas and Oklahoma. Finally, it lost its power and disappeared.
This powerful storm caused a lot of trouble. From Guatemala all the way to Oklahoma, it was responsible for the deaths of over 100 people. It also caused about $740 million in damage. About $240 million of that damage happened in the United States. Even with all this damage, the name Hermine was used again for other storms later.
Contents
What Was Tropical Storm Hermine?
Tropical Storm Hermine was a type of storm called a tropical cyclone. These storms form over warm ocean waters. They bring strong winds and heavy rain. What made Hermine special was its journey. It started in one ocean basin (the Pacific) and then moved to another (the Atlantic).
Hermine's Unusual Journey
Hermine began as Tropical Depression Eleven-E in the eastern Pacific Ocean. It formed on September 3, 2010. It moved towards Mexico and made landfall. After hitting land, it weakened a lot.
But the storm's path wasn't over. The leftover parts of the storm moved across Mexico. They reached the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Here, the storm got its energy back. It quickly became a tropical storm and was named Hermine. This happened on September 6, 2010.
How Strong Was Hermine?
Tropical Storm Hermine reached its strongest point with winds of about 60 miles per hour (95 km/h). Its lowest pressure was 989 millibars. It was a strong tropical storm, but it did not become a hurricane. Hurricanes have even stronger winds.
Hermine's Impact and Damage
Tropical Storm Hermine caused widespread damage and flooding. It affected several countries and states.
Impact in Mexico
Before becoming Tropical Storm Hermine, the original storm brought heavy rains to parts of Mexico. This caused flooding and mudslides. Many people had to leave their homes. The storm also damaged roads and buildings.
Impact in the United States
After reforming, Tropical Storm Hermine moved into Texas. It brought very heavy rainfall. Some areas received more than 16 inches (400 mm) of rain. This led to severe flooding. Homes, businesses, and roads were flooded. Many cars were swept away by the water.
The storm then moved into Oklahoma. It continued to bring heavy rain and strong winds. Flooding was also a big problem here. Emergency teams had to rescue people from flooded areas.
How Much Damage Did It Cause?
The total damage from Hermine was about $740 million. This included damage to homes, businesses, and farms. Roads and bridges were also damaged. The storm also caused power outages, leaving many people without electricity.
Why Was the Name Not Retired?
When a tropical storm or hurricane causes a lot of damage or deaths, its name is sometimes "retired." This means the name won't be used again for another storm. This is done to honor the victims and to avoid using a name associated with such a terrible event.
Even though Tropical Storm Hermine caused many deaths and a lot of damage, its name was not retired. This decision is made by a special committee. They look at the overall impact of the storm.
Images for kids
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Tropical Depression Eleven-E over Central Mexico on September 4
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Radar loop of Tropical Storm Hermine moving through southern Texas on September 7
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Wind damage from Tropical Storm Hermine in Kingsville, Texas
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Rainfall from Tropical Depression Eleven-E and Tropical Storm Hermine in Mexico and the United States
