Highlights

Since Fran is fast approaching landfall, it is vital to monitor changes in storm intensity. By observing the expansion and contraction of cold cloud tops and changes in eye characteristics, hurricane intensity changes can be observed.

What to Observe

• The expansion in area of cloud-top temperatures between -20° and -50°C indicates Fran is weakening as it makes landfall
• The decrease in area of the coldest cloud tops at -70°C also indicates weakening

Status

• Approximately 6 hours prior to landfall until 3 hours after landfall
• Fran is a category 3