Blanca (2009)

A tropical depression formed from a tropical wave about 380 nautical miles south of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, at 0600 UTC on 6 July 2009. The system became Tropical Storm Blanca about six hours later and moved west-northwestward at roughly 8–12 kt under the influence of a mid-level ridge. Blanca reached its peak on 0000 UTC 7 July, then moved over progressively cooler waters and steadily weakened. It became a depression by 1200 UTC 8 July, degenerated into a remnant low by 0600 UTC 9 July about 690 nmi west of Cabo San Lucas, and its circulation dissipated over the open eastern North Pacific by 1200 UTC 12 July.

Blanca did not make landfall. It remained well offshore of Mexico throughout its life, moving generally west-northwest and then turning northward as a weakening remnant low over open water.

The storm’s maximum sustained winds peaked at 45 kt (about 52 mph) and its lowest analyzed central pressure was 998 mb, corresponding to a moderate tropical storm (below hurricane strength) at peak.

There were no reports of storm surge or notable coastal inundation tied to Blanca. The official report did not list measured storm surge heights. Rainfall and coastal impacts were minimal; no specific rainfall totals for cities or counties were reported in association with Blanca.

No deaths or damage were reported. Blanca caused no casualties, property damage, or significant impacts to land areas.

Noteworthy items: Blanca was short-lived and remained over open water, so watches and warnings were not required. Satellite-based analyses established its brief peak intensity; intensity and track forecasts by the National Hurricane Center were generally accurate and had lower-than-average errors for this storm.