IRIS WEAKENS TO A TROPICAL DEPRESSION OVER EASTERN MEXICO

October 9, 2001 — At 11 a.m. EDT, the center of Tropical Depression Iris was located near latitude 16.1 north, longitude 92.8 west or about 45 miles south-southeast of Tuxtla Gutierrez, Mexico. The depression is moving toward the west near 22 mph, and this general motion is expected to continue for the next 24 hours. This motion should bring the center of Iris near the Pacific coast of Mexico later Monday, according to NOAA's National Hurricane Center. (Click NOAA satellite image for larger view of Tropical Depression Iris taken Oct. 9, 2001 at 11:45 a.m. EDT. Click here to see latest satellite image.)

Maximum sustained winds have decreased to near 35 mph with higher gusts. Additional weakening is forecast as Iris moves over the mountains of eastern Mexico, and Iris will likely weaken to a low pressure area later Monday. Estimated minimum central pressure is 1004 mb, 29.65 inches.

Rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches, locally higher, are possible over portions of northern Central America and eastern Mexico. These rains could cause life-threatening flash floods and mud slides.

Click image for larger view.

NOAA satellite image of Tropical Depression Iris taken Oct. 9, 2001 at 9:15 a.m. EDT.

For storm information for specific areas of the USA, please monitor products issued by NOAA's National Weather Service local forecast offices.

Storm Advisories updated 5 a.m., 11 a.m., 5 p.m., and 11 p.m. EDT; every three hours if a Watch/Warning is in effect.

NOAA satellite images updated 15 minutes past the hour; Atlantic Coast and Gulf of Mexico and close-ups also updated at 45 past the hour.

Relevant Web Sites
NOAA's National Hurricane Center — Get the latest advisories here

Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale

NOAA Satellite Images — The latest satellite views

Colorized Satellite Images

NOAA 3-D Satellite Images

NOAA's Hurricanes Page

NOAA's Storm Watch — Get the latest severe weather information across the USA

Media Contact:
Frank Lepore, NOAA's National Hurricane Center, (305) 229-4404

 

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