Re-analysis of the Eastern North Pacific HURDAT

A re-analysis of eastern North Pacific tropical cyclones is underway to correct significant data quality issues of the HURDAT data base for the 1974-1988 period. The primary data source is NOAA's CLASS (Comprehensive Large-Array Data-Stewardship System) satellite imagery. Because of the complete loss of operational Dvorak classifications during that time period, re-classifications of all tropical cyclones are performed to correct systematic and random errors and to ensure a consistent application of current analysis techniques. Other data sources include ship reports from ICOADS (International Ocean-Atmosphere Data Set), Mexican surface observations, and the National Climate Data Center's (NCDC) EDADS (Environmental Document Access and Display System). Preliminary results suggest that significant modifications to HURDAT are necessary. Any proposed changes will be submitted to the Best Track Change Committee for approval.