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The storm dropped light rainfall throughout its path, and winds were minimal. The combination of Danielle and a high pressure system produced higher than normal tides and strong waves, causing beach erosion and light coastal damage. The waves killed two in New Jersey from a boat sinking, and also destroyed three houses in the [[Outer Banks]] of North Carolina. Overall damage from the storm was minimal.
The storm dropped light rainfall throughout its path, and winds were minimal. The combination of Danielle and a high pressure system produced higher than normal tides and strong waves, causing beach erosion and light coastal damage. The waves killed two in New Jersey from a boat sinking, and also destroyed three houses in the [[Outer Banks]] of North Carolina. Overall damage from the storm was minimal.


==Meteorological history==
== Meteorological history ==
{{storm path|Danielle 1992 track.png}}
{{storm path|Danielle 1992 track.png}}
A surface trough of low pressure with an area of convection persisted off the southeast coast of the [[United States]] on September 18. On the same day, a weak tropical wave which moved off the coast of [[Africa]] on September 8 approached the area. A cold front merged with the stationary area of disturbed weather on September 20, and on September 22 a circulation developed 200&nbsp;miles (325&nbsp;km) southeast of [[Cape Hatteras]], [[North Carolina]].<ref name="nhcreportpg1">{{cite web|author=Miles Lawrence|year=1992|title=Tropical Storm Danielle Preliminary Report Page One|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2006-08-02|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/prenhc/prelim01.gif}}</ref> Organization continued as outflow became better defined, and the system developed into Tropical Depression Six later that day.<ref name="disc1">{{cite web|author=Lixion Avila|year=1992|title=Tropical Depression Six Discussion One|publisher=NHC|accessdate=2006-08-02|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/tropdisc/nal0792.001}}</ref>
A surface trough of low pressure with an area of convection persisted off the southeast coast of the [[United States]] on September 18. On the same day, a weak tropical wave which moved off the coast of [[Africa]] on September 8 approached the area. A cold front merged with the stationary area of disturbed weather on September 20, and on September 22 a circulation developed 200&nbsp;miles (325&nbsp;km) southeast of [[Cape Hatteras]], [[North Carolina]].<ref name="nhcreportpg1">{{cite web|author=Miles Lawrence|year=1992|title=Tropical Storm Danielle Preliminary Report Page One|publisher=National Hurricane Center|accessdate=2006-08-02|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/prenhc/prelim01.gif}}</ref> Organization continued as outflow became better defined, and the system developed into Tropical Depression Six later that day.<ref name="disc1">{{cite web|author=Lixion Avila|year=1992|title=Tropical Depression Six Discussion One|publisher=NHC|accessdate=2006-08-02|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/tropdisc/nal0792.001}}</ref>
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The depression rapidly organized and attained tropical storm status with winds of 50&nbsp;mph (80&nbsp;km/h) just six hours after forming, upon which it was named [[Danielle]]. In response to an approaching trough, Danielle initially moved to the northeast. However, the trough outran the system, and a developing high pressure system to its north resulted in Danielle executing a tight, anticyclonic loop on September 23 to the 24th. The storm strengthened as it turned to the northwest, and reached a peak of 65&nbsp;mph (105&nbsp;km/h) winds on September 25 while just off the northeastern coast of North Carolina. Danielle turned to the north-northwest, and made landfall on the [[Eastern Shore of Virginia|Eastern Shore]] of [[Virginia]] late on the 25th. It rapidly weakened over land, and dissipated over eastern [[Pennsylvania]] on September 26.<ref name="nhcreportpg1"/>
The depression rapidly organized and attained tropical storm status with winds of 50&nbsp;mph (80&nbsp;km/h) just six hours after forming, upon which it was named [[Danielle]]. In response to an approaching trough, Danielle initially moved to the northeast. However, the trough outran the system, and a developing high pressure system to its north resulted in Danielle executing a tight, anticyclonic loop on September 23 to the 24th. The storm strengthened as it turned to the northwest, and reached a peak of 65&nbsp;mph (105&nbsp;km/h) winds on September 25 while just off the northeastern coast of North Carolina. Danielle turned to the north-northwest, and made landfall on the [[Eastern Shore of Virginia|Eastern Shore]] of [[Virginia]] late on the 25th. It rapidly weakened over land, and dissipated over eastern [[Pennsylvania]] on September 26.<ref name="nhcreportpg1"/>


==Preparations==
== Preparations ==
[[Image:Danielle radar.JPG|right|thumb|Radar image of Danielle making landfall]]
[[Image:Danielle radar.JPG|right|thumb|Radar image of Danielle making landfall]]
Early in its life, forecasters had difficulties regarding the future track and intensity of Danielle, including a northeastward motion instead of its loop. After Danielle executed its loop, forecasters consistently predicted a landfall along the northeastern [[North Carolina]] coastline.<ref name="nhcreportpg2">{{Cite web|author=Miles Davis|year=1992|title=Tropical Storm Danielle Preliminary Report Page 2|publisher=NHC|accessdate=2006-08-02|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/prenhc/prelim02.gif}}</ref> As a result, officials issued [[Tropical cyclone warnings and watches|Tropical Storm Warnings]] for the coast of North Carolina on September 24, 36&nbsp;hours before the storm passed to the east of the state. The continued northward motion caught forecasters offguard, and consequentially tropical storm warnings were not issued for the [[Delmarva Peninsula]] until just 12&nbsp;hours before the storm made landfall. In addition, forecasters issued tropical storm warnings from [[Delaware]] through [[Watch Hill, Rhode Island]], as a precaution.<ref name="nhcreportpg5">{{cite web|author=Miles Davis|year=1992|title=Tropical Storm Danielle Preliminary Report Page 5|publisher=NHC|accessdate=2006-08-02|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/prenhc/prelim05.gif}}</ref>
Early in its life, forecasters had difficulties regarding the future track and intensity of Danielle, including a northeastward motion instead of its loop. After Danielle executed its loop, forecasters consistently predicted a landfall along the northeastern [[North Carolina]] coastline.<ref name="nhcreportpg2">{{Cite web|author=Miles Davis|year=1992|title=Tropical Storm Danielle Preliminary Report Page 2|publisher=NHC|accessdate=2006-08-02|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/prenhc/prelim02.gif}}</ref> As a result, officials issued [[Tropical cyclone warnings and watches|Tropical Storm Warnings]] for the coast of North Carolina on September 24, 36&nbsp;hours before the storm passed to the east of the state. The continued northward motion caught forecasters offguard, and consequentially tropical storm warnings were not issued for the [[Delmarva Peninsula]] until just 12&nbsp;hours before the storm made landfall. In addition, forecasters issued tropical storm warnings from [[Delaware]] through [[Watch Hill, Rhode Island]], as a precaution.<ref name="nhcreportpg5">{{cite web|author=Miles Davis|year=1992|title=Tropical Storm Danielle Preliminary Report Page 5|publisher=NHC|accessdate=2006-08-02|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/prenhc/prelim05.gif}}</ref>
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In [[North Carolina]], ferry operations between [[Ocracoke, North Carolina|Ocracoke]] and the mainland at [[Hyde County, North Carolina|Hyde County]] were closed, while officials canceled schools in [[Dare County, North Carolina]] due to the approaching storm.<ref name="kdcnews">{{Cite web|author=Virginia Pilot|year=1992|title=Danielle destroys three beach cottages|accessdate=2006-08-02|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/news/vp0926p2.gif}}</ref> Several families voluntarily evacuated St. George's Island in southern [[St. Mary's County, Maryland]].<ref name="bwipr">{{cite web|author=Davis|year=1992|title=Danielle Preliminary Report|publisher=Baltimore National Weather Service|accessdate=2006-08-02|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/preloc/pshbwi.gif}}</ref> In addition, officials in [[Delaware]] recommended evacuations for low-level areas and beaches. As a precaution, officials set up two shelters in [[Kent County, Delaware|Kent County]].<ref name="ilg5">{{cite web|author=James N. Roets|year=1992|title=Tropical Storm Danielle Summary for Delaware|publisher=Wilmington National Weather Service|accessdate=2006-08-02|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/preloc/ilg05.gif}}</ref>
In [[North Carolina]], ferry operations between [[Ocracoke, North Carolina|Ocracoke]] and the mainland at [[Hyde County, North Carolina|Hyde County]] were closed, while officials canceled schools in [[Dare County, North Carolina]] due to the approaching storm.<ref name="kdcnews">{{Cite web|author=Virginia Pilot|year=1992|title=Danielle destroys three beach cottages|accessdate=2006-08-02|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/news/vp0926p2.gif}}</ref> Several families voluntarily evacuated St. George's Island in southern [[St. Mary's County, Maryland]].<ref name="bwipr">{{cite web|author=Davis|year=1992|title=Danielle Preliminary Report|publisher=Baltimore National Weather Service|accessdate=2006-08-02|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/preloc/pshbwi.gif}}</ref> In addition, officials in [[Delaware]] recommended evacuations for low-level areas and beaches. As a precaution, officials set up two shelters in [[Kent County, Delaware|Kent County]].<ref name="ilg5">{{cite web|author=James N. Roets|year=1992|title=Tropical Storm Danielle Summary for Delaware|publisher=Wilmington National Weather Service|accessdate=2006-08-02|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/preloc/ilg05.gif}}</ref>


==Impact==
== Impact ==
===North Carolina===
=== North Carolina ===
The pressure gradient between Tropical Storm Danielle and a ridge of high pressure to its north produced moderately strong winds across eastern [[North Carolina]], peaking at 58&nbsp;mph (93&nbsp;km/h) at [[Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge|Alligator River Bridge]]. Several other locations reported over tropical storm force winds. The pressure gradient also produced higher than normal waves along the coastline, with a maximum of 20&nbsp;feet (6&nbsp;m) at [[Duck, North Carolina|Duck]].<ref name="rdu03">{{cite web|author=Glenn A. Field|year=1992|title=Tropical Storm Danielle Report|publisher=Raleigh National Weather Service|accessdate=2006-08-05|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/preloc/rdu03.gif}}</ref> Despite passing close to the coastline, Danielle dropped only light rainfall, totaling to 0.2&nbsp;inches (5&nbsp;mm) at [[Cape Hatteras, North Carolina|Cape Hatteras]].<ref name="hatpsh">{{cite web|author=Demaurice|year=1992|title=Tropical Storm Danielle Preliminary Report|publisher=Cape Hatteras National Weather Service|accessdate=2006-08-05|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/preloc/pshhat.gif}}</ref> However, locations in the central portion of the state experienced over 1&nbsp;inch (25&nbsp;mm) of rainfall.<ref name="rain">{{cite web|author=Hydrometeorological Prediction Center|year=2005|title=Tropical Storm Danielle Rainfall Summary|accessdate=2006-08-05|url=http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/tropical/rain/danielle1992.html}}</ref>
The pressure gradient between Tropical Storm Danielle and a ridge of high pressure to its north produced moderately strong winds across eastern [[North Carolina]], peaking at 58&nbsp;mph (93&nbsp;km/h) at [[Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge|Alligator River Bridge]]. Several other locations reported over tropical storm force winds. The pressure gradient also produced higher than normal waves along the coastline, with a maximum of 20&nbsp;feet (6&nbsp;m) at [[Duck, North Carolina|Duck]].<ref name="rdu03">{{cite web|author=Glenn A. Field|year=1992|title=Tropical Storm Danielle Report|publisher=Raleigh National Weather Service|accessdate=2006-08-05|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/preloc/rdu03.gif}}</ref> Despite passing close to the coastline, Danielle dropped only light rainfall, totaling to 0.2&nbsp;inches (5&nbsp;mm) at [[Cape Hatteras, North Carolina|Cape Hatteras]].<ref name="hatpsh">{{cite web|author=Demaurice|year=1992|title=Tropical Storm Danielle Preliminary Report|publisher=Cape Hatteras National Weather Service|accessdate=2006-08-05|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/preloc/pshhat.gif}}</ref> However, locations in the central portion of the state experienced over 1&nbsp;inch (25&nbsp;mm) of rainfall.<ref name="rain">{{cite web|author=Hydrometeorological Prediction Center|year=2005|title=Tropical Storm Danielle Rainfall Summary|accessdate=2006-08-05|url=http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/tropical/rain/danielle1992.html}}</ref>


Waves and high tides from the storm caused flooding along the [[Pamlico Sound]] side of [[Ocracoke, North Carolina|Ocracoke]] and southern [[Hatteras Island]]. High tides also resulted in overwash in [[Pea Island]], forcing the closure of [[North Carolina State Highway 12|State Highway 17]] due to 12&nbsp;inches (305&nbsp;mm) of salt water. High tides from the storm also destroyed two houses in [[South Nags Head, North Carolina|South Nags Head]] and one in [[Rodanthe, North Carolina|Rodanthe]], two of which were previously condemned after the [[1991 Perfect Storm]]. Three other houses in the Outer Banks were threatened by the storm.<ref name="hatpsh"/> Elsewhere in the Outer Banks, damage was minimal, and was limited to pedestrian ramps and steps to the beachfront.<ref name="kdcnews"/>
Waves and high tides from the storm caused flooding along the [[Pamlico Sound]] side of [[Ocracoke, North Carolina|Ocracoke]] and southern [[Hatteras Island]]. High tides also resulted in overwash in [[Pea Island]], forcing the closure of [[North Carolina State Highway 12|State Highway 17]] due to 12&nbsp;inches (305&nbsp;mm) of salt water. High tides from the storm also destroyed two houses in [[South Nags Head, North Carolina|South Nags Head]] and one in [[Rodanthe, North Carolina|Rodanthe]], two of which were previously condemned after the [[1991 Perfect Storm]]. Three other houses in the Outer Banks were threatened by the storm.<ref name="hatpsh"/> Elsewhere in the Outer Banks, damage was minimal, and was limited to pedestrian ramps and steps to the beachfront.<ref name="kdcnews"/>


===Mid-Atlantic===
=== Mid-Atlantic ===
[[Image:Danielle1992rain.gif|thumb|right|Rainfall totals from Danielle]]
[[Image:Danielle1992rain.gif|thumb|right|Rainfall totals from Danielle]]
In [[Virginia]], Tropical Storm Danielle produced peak wind gusts of 61&nbsp;mph (98&nbsp;km/h) at [[Cape Henry]], though sustained winds remained below tropical storm strength. Rainfall was light along the coast, totaling to around 0.34&nbsp;inches (8.6&nbsp;mm).<ref name="norfnws">{{cite web|author=Norfolk National Weather Service|year=1992|title=Tropical Storm Danielle Preliminary Report|accessdate=2006-08-06|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/preloc/pshorf.gif}}</ref> However, outer bands of the storm produced heavier rainfall in the center portion of the state, peaking at 4.09&nbsp;inches (103.88&nbsp;m) at [[Charlottesville, Virginia|Charlottesville]].<ref name="metsum">{{cite web|author=Miles Davis|year=1992|title=Meteorological Statistics for Danielle|publisher=NHC|accessdate=2006-08-06|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/prenhc/prelim04.gif}}</ref> The storm also produced higher than usual tides, peaking at 4.42&nbsp;feet (1.3&nbsp;m) at the mouth of the [[Elizabeth River]] in [[Sewell's Point|Sewells Point]],<ref name="norfnws"/> as well as strong waves along the Virginia coastline. The waves caused significant overwash, leaving parts of [[Norfolk, Virginia|Norfolk]] under 2&nbsp;feet (.6&nbsp;m) of water. Several homes, businesses, and cars were flooded, as well. The waves also eroded beaches along the coast.<ref name="vapilot">{{cite web|author=Steve Stone|year=1992|title=Coast is spared the worst of unpredictable Danielle|publisher=Virginia Pilot|accessdate=2006-08-06|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/news/vp0926p1.gif}}</ref> Overall, damage was minimal, and there were no reports of deaths or injuries.<ref name="norfnws"/>
In [[Virginia]], Tropical Storm Danielle produced peak wind gusts of 61&nbsp;mph (98&nbsp;km/h) at [[Cape Henry]], though sustained winds remained below tropical storm strength. Rainfall was light along the coast, totaling to around 0.34&nbsp;inches (8.6&nbsp;mm).<ref name="norfnws">{{cite web|author=Norfolk National Weather Service|year=1992|title=Tropical Storm Danielle Preliminary Report|accessdate=2006-08-06|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/preloc/pshorf.gif}}</ref> However, outer bands of the storm produced heavier rainfall in the center portion of the state, peaking at 4.09&nbsp;inches (103.88&nbsp;m) at [[Charlottesville, Virginia|Charlottesville]].<ref name="metsum">{{cite web|author=Miles Davis|year=1992|title=Meteorological Statistics for Danielle|publisher=NHC|accessdate=2006-08-06|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/prenhc/prelim04.gif}}</ref> The storm also produced higher than usual tides, peaking at 4.42&nbsp;feet (1.3&nbsp;m) at the mouth of the [[Elizabeth River]] in [[Sewell's Point|Sewells Point]],<ref name="norfnws"/> as well as strong waves along the Virginia coastline. The waves caused significant overwash, leaving parts of [[Norfolk, Virginia|Norfolk]] under 2&nbsp;feet (.6&nbsp;m) of water. Several homes, businesses, and cars were flooded, as well. The waves also eroded beaches along the coast.<ref name="vapilot">{{cite web|author=Steve Stone|year=1992|title=Coast is spared the worst of unpredictable Danielle|publisher=Virginia Pilot|accessdate=2006-08-06|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/news/vp0926p1.gif}}</ref> Overall, damage was minimal, and there were no reports of deaths or injuries.<ref name="norfnws"/>
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In [[Delaware]], the storm dropped light precipitation, with a maximum amount of 3.75&nbsp;inches (95&nbsp;mm) in [[Smyrna, Delaware|Smyrna]]. Wind gusts peaked at 66&nbsp;mph (106&nbsp;km/h) at [[Cape Henlopen]].<ref name="metsum"/> Danielle caused 2 to 3-foot (.6 to .9-m) higher than normal tides, along with strong waves. The combination of the two flooded some coastal houses<ref name="ilg5"/> and resulted in significant beach and dune erosion. The waves also sank four boats and washed away a dock near [[Slaughter Beach, Delaware|Slaughter Beach]].<ref name="ilg1">{{cite web|author=James N. Roets|year=1992|title=Tropical Storm Danielle Summary for Delaware|publisher=Wilmington National Weather Service|accessdate=2006-08-08|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/preloc/ilg01.gif}}</ref> Gusty winds caused power outages in [[New Castle County, Delaware|New Castle County]], while persistent rainfall caused sewer interruptions. Overall, with the exception of the severe beach erosion, damage was minimal.<ref name="ilg6">{{cite web|author=James N. Roets|year=1992|title=Tropical Storm Danielle Summary for Delaware|publisher=Wilmington National Weather Service|accessdate=2006-08-08|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/preloc/ilg06.gif}}</ref>
In [[Delaware]], the storm dropped light precipitation, with a maximum amount of 3.75&nbsp;inches (95&nbsp;mm) in [[Smyrna, Delaware|Smyrna]]. Wind gusts peaked at 66&nbsp;mph (106&nbsp;km/h) at [[Cape Henlopen]].<ref name="metsum"/> Danielle caused 2 to 3-foot (.6 to .9-m) higher than normal tides, along with strong waves. The combination of the two flooded some coastal houses<ref name="ilg5"/> and resulted in significant beach and dune erosion. The waves also sank four boats and washed away a dock near [[Slaughter Beach, Delaware|Slaughter Beach]].<ref name="ilg1">{{cite web|author=James N. Roets|year=1992|title=Tropical Storm Danielle Summary for Delaware|publisher=Wilmington National Weather Service|accessdate=2006-08-08|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/preloc/ilg01.gif}}</ref> Gusty winds caused power outages in [[New Castle County, Delaware|New Castle County]], while persistent rainfall caused sewer interruptions. Overall, with the exception of the severe beach erosion, damage was minimal.<ref name="ilg6">{{cite web|author=James N. Roets|year=1992|title=Tropical Storm Danielle Summary for Delaware|publisher=Wilmington National Weather Service|accessdate=2006-08-08|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/preloc/ilg06.gif}}</ref>


===Northeast United States===
=== Northeast United States ===
Tropical Storm Danielle dropped light rainfall across much of [[New Jersey]], with some areas in the southwestern portion of the state experiencing over 3&nbsp;inches (76&nbsp;mm).<ref name="rain"/> Strong waves from the storm washed out miles of beaches along the coastline. In [[Ocean City, New Jersey|Ocean City]], the waves passed over the boardwalk and into houses. Further north, the waves crashed a four-person, 35-foot (10-m) sailboat near [[Island Beach State Park]]. Two managed to swim safely to shore,<ref name="mhdan">{{cite web|author=Associated Press|year=1992|title=Tropical Storm blamed on one death|accessdate=2006-08-09|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/news/mh0927p1.gif}}</ref> though the other two occupants drowned.<ref name="nccanes">{{Cite web|author=James E. Hudgins|year=2000|title=Tropical cyclones affecting North Carolina since 1586|publisher=National Weather Service|accessdate=2006-08-09|url=http://repository.wrclib.noaa.gov/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1002&context=nws_tech_memos}}</ref>
Tropical Storm Danielle dropped light rainfall across much of [[New Jersey]], with some areas in the southwestern portion of the state experiencing over 3&nbsp;inches (76&nbsp;mm).<ref name="rain"/> Strong waves from the storm washed out miles of beaches along the coastline. In [[Ocean City, New Jersey|Ocean City]], the waves passed over the boardwalk and into houses. Further north, the waves crashed a four-person, 35-foot (10-m) sailboat near [[Island Beach State Park]]. Two managed to swim safely to shore,<ref name="mhdan">{{cite web|author=Associated Press|year=1992|title=Tropical Storm blamed on one death|accessdate=2006-08-09|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/storm_wallets/atlantic/atl1992/danielle/news/mh0927p1.gif}}</ref> though the other two occupants drowned.<ref name="nccanes">{{Cite web|author=James E. Hudgins|year=2000|title=Tropical cyclones affecting North Carolina since 1586|publisher=National Weather Service|accessdate=2006-08-09|url=http://repository.wrclib.noaa.gov/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1002&context=nws_tech_memos|archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070311045226/http://repository.wrclib.noaa.gov/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1002&context=nws_tech_memos |archivedate = March 11, 2007|deadurl=yes}}</ref>


Danielle's outer bands dropped light rainfall from [[Connecticut]] through [[Maine]], with isolated locations in [[Rhode Island]] and [[Massachusetts]] reporting over 3&nbsp;inches (76&nbsp;mm). Damage in New England is unknown.<ref name="rain"/>
Danielle's outer bands dropped light rainfall from [[Connecticut]] through [[Maine]], with isolated locations in [[Rhode Island]] and [[Massachusetts]] reporting over 3&nbsp;inches (76&nbsp;mm). Damage in New England is unknown.<ref name="rain"/>


==See also==
== See also ==
{{Portal|Tropical cyclones}}
{{Portal|Tropical cyclones}}
*[[Tropical cyclone]]
* [[Tropical cyclone]]
*[[List of tropical cyclones]]
* [[List of tropical cyclones]]
*[[List of North Carolina hurricanes]]
* [[List of North Carolina hurricanes]]
*[[List of New Jersey hurricanes]]
* [[List of New Jersey hurricanes]]
* [[Timeline of the 1992 Atlantic hurricane season]]
* [[Timeline of the 1992 Atlantic hurricane season]]


==References==
== References ==
{{Commons category}}
{{Commons category}}
{{Reflist|2}}
{{Reflist|2}}
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Danielle (1992)}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Danielle (1992)}}

[[Category:1992 Atlantic hurricane season]]
[[Category:1992 Atlantic hurricane season]]
[[Category:Maryland hurricanes]]
[[Category:Maryland hurricanes]]

Revision as of 21:23, 13 June 2010

This article is about the Atlantic tropical storm of 1992; for other storms with this name, see Hurricane Danielle.
Tropical Storm Danielle
Tropical storm (SSHWS/NWS)
Tropical Storm Danielle off the coast of North Carolina
FormedSeptember 22, 1992
DissipatedSeptember 26, 1992
Highest winds1-minute sustained: 65 mph (100 km/h)
Lowest pressure1001 mbar (hPa); 29.56 inHg
Fatalities2 direct
Areas affectedNorth Carolina, Mid-Atlantic, New Jersey
Part of the 1992 Atlantic hurricane season

Tropical Storm Danielle was a weak tropical storm that made landfall on Virginia in the 1992 Atlantic hurricane season. The fourth storm of the season, Danielle was one of two Atlantic storms in the year to make landfall in the United States, the other being Hurricane Andrew. It formed out of a stationary trough of low pressure on September 18 near the coast of North Carolina. The system quickly reached tropical storm status, and Danielle looped to the west due to a change in steering currents. Tropical Storm Danielle reached a peak of 65 mph (105 km/h) winds before weakening and hitting the Delmarva Peninsula. The storm quickly dissipated over land.

The storm dropped light rainfall throughout its path, and winds were minimal. The combination of Danielle and a high pressure system produced higher than normal tides and strong waves, causing beach erosion and light coastal damage. The waves killed two in New Jersey from a boat sinking, and also destroyed three houses in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Overall damage from the storm was minimal.

Meteorological history

Map plotting the storm's track and intensity, according to the Saffir–Simpson scale
Map key
Saffir–Simpson scale
  Tropical depression (≤38 mph, ≤62 km/h)
  Tropical storm (39–73 mph, 63–118 km/h)
  Category 1 (74–95 mph, 119–153 km/h)
  Category 2 (96–110 mph, 154–177 km/h)
  Category 3 (111–129 mph, 178–208 km/h)
  Category 4 (130–156 mph, 209–251 km/h)
  Category 5 (≥157 mph, ≥252 km/h)
  Unknown
Storm type
triangle Extratropical cyclone, remnant low, tropical disturbance, or monsoon depression

A surface trough of low pressure with an area of convection persisted off the southeast coast of the United States on September 18. On the same day, a weak tropical wave which moved off the coast of Africa on September 8 approached the area. A cold front merged with the stationary area of disturbed weather on September 20, and on September 22 a circulation developed 200 miles (325 km) southeast of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina.[1] Organization continued as outflow became better defined, and the system developed into Tropical Depression Six later that day.[2]

The depression rapidly organized and attained tropical storm status with winds of 50 mph (80 km/h) just six hours after forming, upon which it was named Danielle. In response to an approaching trough, Danielle initially moved to the northeast. However, the trough outran the system, and a developing high pressure system to its north resulted in Danielle executing a tight, anticyclonic loop on September 23 to the 24th. The storm strengthened as it turned to the northwest, and reached a peak of 65 mph (105 km/h) winds on September 25 while just off the northeastern coast of North Carolina. Danielle turned to the north-northwest, and made landfall on the Eastern Shore of Virginia late on the 25th. It rapidly weakened over land, and dissipated over eastern Pennsylvania on September 26.[1]

Preparations

Radar image of Danielle making landfall

Early in its life, forecasters had difficulties regarding the future track and intensity of Danielle, including a northeastward motion instead of its loop. After Danielle executed its loop, forecasters consistently predicted a landfall along the northeastern North Carolina coastline.[3] As a result, officials issued Tropical Storm Warnings for the coast of North Carolina on September 24, 36 hours before the storm passed to the east of the state. The continued northward motion caught forecasters offguard, and consequentially tropical storm warnings were not issued for the Delmarva Peninsula until just 12 hours before the storm made landfall. In addition, forecasters issued tropical storm warnings from Delaware through Watch Hill, Rhode Island, as a precaution.[4]

In North Carolina, ferry operations between Ocracoke and the mainland at Hyde County were closed, while officials canceled schools in Dare County, North Carolina due to the approaching storm.[5] Several families voluntarily evacuated St. George's Island in southern St. Mary's County, Maryland.[6] In addition, officials in Delaware recommended evacuations for low-level areas and beaches. As a precaution, officials set up two shelters in Kent County.[7]

Impact

North Carolina

The pressure gradient between Tropical Storm Danielle and a ridge of high pressure to its north produced moderately strong winds across eastern North Carolina, peaking at 58 mph (93 km/h) at Alligator River Bridge. Several other locations reported over tropical storm force winds. The pressure gradient also produced higher than normal waves along the coastline, with a maximum of 20 feet (6 m) at Duck.[8] Despite passing close to the coastline, Danielle dropped only light rainfall, totaling to 0.2 inches (5 mm) at Cape Hatteras.[9] However, locations in the central portion of the state experienced over 1 inch (25 mm) of rainfall.[10]

Waves and high tides from the storm caused flooding along the Pamlico Sound side of Ocracoke and southern Hatteras Island. High tides also resulted in overwash in Pea Island, forcing the closure of State Highway 17 due to 12 inches (305 mm) of salt water. High tides from the storm also destroyed two houses in South Nags Head and one in Rodanthe, two of which were previously condemned after the 1991 Perfect Storm. Three other houses in the Outer Banks were threatened by the storm.[9] Elsewhere in the Outer Banks, damage was minimal, and was limited to pedestrian ramps and steps to the beachfront.[5]

Mid-Atlantic

Rainfall totals from Danielle

In Virginia, Tropical Storm Danielle produced peak wind gusts of 61 mph (98 km/h) at Cape Henry, though sustained winds remained below tropical storm strength. Rainfall was light along the coast, totaling to around 0.34 inches (8.6 mm).[11] However, outer bands of the storm produced heavier rainfall in the center portion of the state, peaking at 4.09 inches (103.88 m) at Charlottesville.[12] The storm also produced higher than usual tides, peaking at 4.42 feet (1.3 m) at the mouth of the Elizabeth River in Sewells Point,[11] as well as strong waves along the Virginia coastline. The waves caused significant overwash, leaving parts of Norfolk under 2 feet (.6 m) of water. Several homes, businesses, and cars were flooded, as well. The waves also eroded beaches along the coast.[13] Overall, damage was minimal, and there were no reports of deaths or injuries.[11]

Upon making landfall Danielle produced an estimated storm tide of 2 to 3 feet (.6 to .9 m) in Ocean City, Maryland. Wind gusts peaked at 53 mph (85 km/h), also in Ocean City.[6] The storm produced moderate rainfall of over 3 inches (76 mm) across the Eastern Shore of Maryland,[10] while interior amounts experienced slightly lesser amounts of up to 2.79 inches (71 mm) in Pasadena. Waves from the storm caused minor to moderate beach erosion along the coastline, and the combination of waves and high tides caused moderate street flooding. Near Salisbury, the storm produced a possible hook echo, though no tornadoes were reported. Danielle caused no deaths or injuries in the state.[6]

In Delaware, the storm dropped light precipitation, with a maximum amount of 3.75 inches (95 mm) in Smyrna. Wind gusts peaked at 66 mph (106 km/h) at Cape Henlopen.[12] Danielle caused 2 to 3-foot (.6 to .9-m) higher than normal tides, along with strong waves. The combination of the two flooded some coastal houses[7] and resulted in significant beach and dune erosion. The waves also sank four boats and washed away a dock near Slaughter Beach.[14] Gusty winds caused power outages in New Castle County, while persistent rainfall caused sewer interruptions. Overall, with the exception of the severe beach erosion, damage was minimal.[15]

Northeast United States

Tropical Storm Danielle dropped light rainfall across much of New Jersey, with some areas in the southwestern portion of the state experiencing over 3 inches (76 mm).[10] Strong waves from the storm washed out miles of beaches along the coastline. In Ocean City, the waves passed over the boardwalk and into houses. Further north, the waves crashed a four-person, 35-foot (10-m) sailboat near Island Beach State Park. Two managed to swim safely to shore,[16] though the other two occupants drowned.[17]

Danielle's outer bands dropped light rainfall from Connecticut through Maine, with isolated locations in Rhode Island and Massachusetts reporting over 3 inches (76 mm). Damage in New England is unknown.[10]

See also

References

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Tropical Storm Danielle (1992).
  1. ^ a b Miles Lawrence (1992). "Tropical Storm Danielle Preliminary Report Page One". National Hurricane Center. Retrieved 2006-08-02.
  2. ^ Lixion Avila (1992). "Tropical Depression Six Discussion One". NHC. Retrieved 2006-08-02.
  3. ^ Miles Davis (1992). "Tropical Storm Danielle Preliminary Report Page 2". NHC. Retrieved 2006-08-02.
  4. ^ Miles Davis (1992). "Tropical Storm Danielle Preliminary Report Page 5". NHC. Retrieved 2006-08-02.
  5. ^ a b Virginia Pilot (1992). "Danielle destroys three beach cottages". Retrieved 2006-08-02.
  6. ^ a b c Davis (1992). "Danielle Preliminary Report". Baltimore National Weather Service. Retrieved 2006-08-02.
  7. ^ a b James N. Roets (1992). "Tropical Storm Danielle Summary for Delaware". Wilmington National Weather Service. Retrieved 2006-08-02.
  8. ^ Glenn A. Field (1992). "Tropical Storm Danielle Report". Raleigh National Weather Service. Retrieved 2006-08-05.
  9. ^ a b Demaurice (1992). "Tropical Storm Danielle Preliminary Report". Cape Hatteras National Weather Service. Retrieved 2006-08-05.
  10. ^ a b c d Hydrometeorological Prediction Center (2005). "Tropical Storm Danielle Rainfall Summary". Retrieved 2006-08-05.
  11. ^ a b c Norfolk National Weather Service (1992). "Tropical Storm Danielle Preliminary Report". Retrieved 2006-08-06.
  12. ^ a b Miles Davis (1992). "Meteorological Statistics for Danielle". NHC. Retrieved 2006-08-06.
  13. ^ Steve Stone (1992). "Coast is spared the worst of unpredictable Danielle". Virginia Pilot. Retrieved 2006-08-06.
  14. ^ James N. Roets (1992). "Tropical Storm Danielle Summary for Delaware". Wilmington National Weather Service. Retrieved 2006-08-08.
  15. ^ James N. Roets (1992). "Tropical Storm Danielle Summary for Delaware". Wilmington National Weather Service. Retrieved 2006-08-08.
  16. ^ Associated Press (1992). "Tropical Storm blamed on one death". Retrieved 2006-08-09.
  17. ^ James E. Hudgins (2000). "Tropical cyclones affecting North Carolina since 1586". National Weather Service. Archived from the original on March 11, 2007. Retrieved 2006-08-09. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)

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