Hurricane Isaac (2012): In-situ Observations and Fully Coupled Atmosphere-Wave-Ocean Model Predictions

Observations from ocean drifters deployed in Hurricane Isaac on August 26, 2012 provided unprecident high-temporal resolution (every 15 min) data of sea-level pressure (SLP), surface wind speed and direction, SST and subsurface upper ocean temperature that were reported in real time via the GTS data system. The center of Hurricane Isaac passed through the drifter array on August 27. These in-situ observations provided a unique, detailed description of the storm evolution, including the pre-, during, and post-storm stages. The high temporal resolution of the drifter data are invaluable in capturing the SLP at about 982 hPa and wind speed >45-50 kts near the center of the storm. The continued observations from August 26-September 15, 2012 provided a rare opportunity to document not only the SLP and wind structure in Isaac, but also the storm-included ocean cooling as well as post-storm recovery of the SST and upper ocean temperature in the Gulf. These in-situ observations are also invaluable for evaluation and verification of coupled atmosphere-wave-ocean models for hurricane forecasting and future coupled data assimilation. Details on air-sea interaction in Hurricane Issac, coupled model predictions and comparison with in-situ observations and will be discussed.