Topic: Cyclone Zoe vs Cyclone Monica

[Carlos E]

Ok, I have another question (not really a question, but one asking for opinion I guess).

2002's Cyclone Zoe is regarded as one of the strongest storms ever in the Southern Hemisphere. I believe it's peak pressure (correct me if I'm wrong) was in the 890's. 2006's Cyclone Monica, which struck the Northern Territory was at an estimated pressure of 905hPa at its peak power.

Which one was actually stronger in your opinion? I'm doing some research on the two, and thus far I've found that Monica remained incredibly powerful up until its landfall, and Zoe (which was actually predicted to reach winds of 170 1-min knots at one point!, although it didn't) eventually dissipated in the South Pacific.

Any responses appreciated!

[Michael Bath]

ZOE: 24 Dec 2002 to 01 Jan 2003 SPAC

http://australiasevereweather.com/cyclones/tropical_cyclones_2003_southern_hemisphere.htm

and link to the track map

http://australiasevereweather.com/cyclones/2003/zoe.gif

[Carlos E]

I can't believe the unofficial report estimates Monica was more intense than Tip...

It's almost surreal that it happened so close to Darwin.

[Carlos E]

I see, thanks for the pictures.

Monica is the closest I've even seen to "perfect" in terms of Cyclones.