Gilma (2006)

A tropical depression formed from a tropical wave well southwest of Mexico and became Tropical Storm Gilma on August 1, 2006. Gilma moved generally west‑northwest along the southern edge of a ridge off Mexico. Convection fluctuated under moderate easterly wind shear; the system weakened back to a depression by August 2, became a remnant low on August 4 about 375 nautical miles west‑southwest of Manzanillo, and dissipated on August 5 south‑southwest of the southern tip of Baja California.

Gilma did not make any landfalls. It remained over open water in the eastern North Pacific and no coastal watches or warnings were required.

The storm’s peak intensity was 35 knots (40 mph) with a minimum central pressure of 1004 mb, corresponding to a minimal tropical storm (below hurricane strength). Peak intensity occurred early on August 1 and was short lived because persistent easterly shear quickly exposed the center.

There are no reports of storm surge or rainfall impacts tied to Gilma in the official record. Observations of the cyclone were limited to satellites; no ships or buoys inside the circulation reported surge or rainfall measurements at named cities or counties.

No damages or casualties were reported in association with Gilma. The cyclone’s impacts were negligible because it stayed over open water.

Noteworthy items: Gilma was short‑lived (about 66 hours as a tropical cyclone) and was monitored only by satellites. Forecast track errors were comparable to long‑term averages at short lead times but larger at 48 hours for this limited sample; average official intensity forecasts tended to overestimate strengthening because forecasters anticipated shear would lessen.