Parbuckling of Costa Concordia Begins

Dark Line on Costa Concordia Shows Movement  Source: Chicago Tribune
Watch Live

This image extracted from a live video of Costa Concordia's Parbuckling Procedure, which began today in Giglio, shows the slow process of righting the vessel.  The actual process started around 9 AM this morning after a storm delayed the start.

Related Links:

Attempt to right Costa Concordia cruise ship begins (USA Today)
Graphic on How Costa Concordia will be Raised

The Parbuckling Project: Concordia wreck removal project informative website

The overall project is 77% completed and is being carried out by a crew of 474 workers and 28 vessels and crafts on site. For a video and additional details of the salvage operation, see Costa Concordia Salvage Begins.

Main article: Costa Concordia Listing after Deadly Accident 

Updates from Parbuckling Website:       Multimedia Content

Please Note:   During the actual operations (daytime hours local Giglio time) you may experience problems accessing the Parbuckling Project's website.  It is best to view off-hours.

16 Sep 2013  4.20 P.M. The wreck side has been successfully dislodged from the reef by applying a maximum load of 6,000 tons (in line with forecast), thanks to the force exerted by the strand jacks operating the system of winches and steel chains.  The wreck has now rotated 10 degrees and will need to rotate at least as many before it has completed the first 20 degrees with reference to the initial position which is the approximate point at which the intake valves of the 11 sponsons attached to the port side of the hull reach sea level.

In the meantime the whole parbuckling system is being monitored constantly, with continuous checks – for example – of the condition of the strand jacks and chains, etc.

7.00 P.M.:The Titan Micoperi consortium announced that strandjack operations were temporarily suspended for an hour for maintenance work. It was in fact necessary to intervene with a dedicated team to avoid slack cables from interfering with the tensioned cables. The ‘Fast Response’ team is comprised of 8 people ready to intervene for checking purposes or in the event of anomalies. As foreseen by the operating and site procedures, access onboard was via a specifically positioned ladder, and safety checks were carried out. The team who intervened are all qualified to work on the wreck, are equipped with climbing gear and protective devices as necessary. Parbuckling operations have now resumed.

  Follow us on Facebook for Updates to this ongoing story.  We'll post links to images, videos, and news stories from various sources.

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Thanks for Visiting Us at ChamberFest

Streamwood ChamberFest

& Car Show

SCC ChamberFest 2013 (40 photos)

Beautiful day at SCC ChamberFest - come see us (7 photos)

 

What comes to mind when you put "Cruise" and "Cars" in the same sentence?

Normally you'd think about a "cruise night" when owners show off their cars and all the work that they have put into them.

Well, we took our "cruise" and vacation show on the road as well Saturday as we participated in the Streamwood Chamber of Commerce (SCC) ChamberFest and Car Show at Hoosier Grove Barn in Streamwood, IL.

It was our pleasure to be part of this annual event supporting the work of SCC, a non-profit organization that is dedicated to promoting, enhancing and supporting the prosperity of its members while also supporting the future of our community through their Scholarship Programs.

There were several of the local classic car owners in attendance along with several racing cars.  One of the favorites was the D.A.R.E truck from the Streamwood Police Department.  Visitors could get a closeup look at the cars and then vote on their favorites.   Trophies were presented to the winners at the end of the event.

We couldn't have asked for a better day.  Temperatures were in the upper 60s with puffy clouds painting the blue sky.   Many families came right from their soccer games in the adjacent fields to visit our fair. The children loved the bouncy house which was sponsored by the SCC.   

Those that visited our booth, which was part of the vendor fair, had an opportunity to explore vacation options ranging from trips to Disney resorts to cruises of all lengths on the seven seas. It is possible to tie in your love of cars into your vacation.  Disneyland has a "Cars" attraction based on the animated film.   You could sail away to Monaco and see the track which runs through town just to name a couple options.

As past president and member of the board of directors, I was kept busy throughout the event, but did manage to speak with most of the people that stopped by our booth.  Once again Alaska seems to be dominating the interest for cruises while the Mediterranean leads the pack for land travel.  Of course, Walt Disney World and Disney Cruise Line is a favorite for families.

We encourage you to check out our many resources to help you explore vacations options.  Better yet, give us a call, tell us what you like to do, and let us work our magic finding you the perfect vacation.

If you haven’t signed up for our eSavers Newsletter yet, be sure to do so. This is just one of our communication vehicles to keep you informed about industry news and special offers for our loyal followers.




Be sure to visit our Facebook Fan Page and "Like Us" so that you can be in the inner circle of our Fans. You’ll have the opportunity to be the first to know about specials and other exclusive information, such as updates from cruise lines.

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Tropical Storm Manuel Formed in East Pacific

Interactive Map

THIS IS THE LAST PUBLIC ADVISORY ISSUED BY THE NATIONAL HURRICANE
CENTER ON THIS SYSTEM UNLESS REGENERATION OCCURS.

Tropical Storm MANUEL

Remnants of MANUEL	200 AM PDT MON SEP 16 2013 ...MANUEL DISSIPATES OVER  WEST-CENTRAL MEXICO... ...HEAVY RAINS TO CONTINUE ALONG THE SOUTHWESTERN COAST OF MEXICO...
WIND:	NEAR 30 MPH...45 KM/H...WITH HIGHER GUSTS.
WATCHES/ WARNINGS:	THERE ARE NO COASTAL WATCHES OR WARNINGS IN EFFECT.
SHIP IMPACT:	NO CRUISE SHIPS IMPACTED

      Storm Archive              Graphics Archive 

A new tropical depression, TD 13-E formed Friday and is expected to become Tropical Storm Manuel.  Heavy rainfall is predicted for Mexico as a result of this tropical weather system.

NHC ACTIVE STORMS (CLICK HERE)

Real-Time Cruise Ship Tracking

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HURRICANES (CLICK HERE)

Not the storm you are looking for?  Click Image or Here

SUMMARY OF 200 AM PDT...0900 UTC...INFORMATION
----------------------------------------------
LOCATION...20.6N 105.3W
ABOUT 5 MI...10 KM W OF PUERTO VALLARTA MEXICO
ABOUT 335 MI...540 KM ESE OF THE SOUTHERN TIP OF BAJA CALIFORNIA
MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS...30 MPH...45 KM/H
PRESENT MOVEMENT...NW OR 325 DEGREES AT 8 MPH...13 KM/H
MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE...1002 MB...29.59 INCHES

HAZARDS AFFECTING LAND
----------------------
RAINFALL...THE REMNANTS OF MANUEL ARE EXPECTED TO PRODUCE 10 TO 15
INCHES OF RAIN OVER PORTIONS OF THE MEXICAN STATES OF GUERRERO AND
MICHOACAN...WITH ISOLATED MAXIMUM AMOUNTS OF 25 INCHES POSSIBLE.
RAINFALL ACCUMULATIONS OF 5 TO 10 INCHES...WITH ISOLATED MAXIMUM
AMOUNTS OF 20 INCHES ARE POSSIBLE IN THE MEXICAN STATES OF
COLIMA...JALISCO...AND NAYARIT.  THESE RAINS ARE LIKELY TO RESULT
IN LIFE-THREATENING FLASH FLOODS AND MUD SLIDES...ESPECIALLY IN
REGIONS OF MOUNTAINOUS TERRAIN.

SURF...SWELLS GENERATED BY MANUEL ARE STILL AFFECTING PORTIONS OF
THE COAST OF MEXICO BETWEEN THE GULF OF TEHUANTEPEC AND MANZANILLO.
THESE SWELLS ARE EXPECTED TO SUBSIDE DURING THE DAY.

 Historical Data:

800 AM PDT FRI SEP 13 2013
 
...TROPICAL DEPRESSION FORMS SOUTH OF MEXICO...
...VERY HEAVY RAINS EXPECTED TO BE THE PRIMARY THREAT...

A TROPICAL STORM WARNING IS IN EFFECT FOR...
* ACAPULCO TO LAZARO CARDENAS

200 PM PDT FRI SEP 13 2013
 
...TROPICAL STORM WARNING EXTENDED WESTWARD... 

200 PM PDT SAT SEP 14 2013
 
...LIFE-THREATENING FLASH FLOODING POSSIBLE WITH MANUEL...

A TROPICAL STORM WARNING IS IN EFFECT FOR...
* ZIHANTANEJO TO MANZANILLO

A TROPICAL STORM WATCH IS IN EFFECT FOR...
* WEST OF MANZANILLO TO CABO CORRIENTES 

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Hurricane Ingrid in Gulf of Mexico

Interactive Map

Hurricane INGRID

(Sep 12) Tropical Depression Ten formed in the Gulf of Mexico prompting warnings for heavy rain and life threatening conditions in Eastern Mexico.

(Sep 14) The storm continued to strengthen with Tropical Storm Ingrid becoming the second hurricane of the Atlantic season Saturday afternoon.

Tropical Storm INGRID	700 AM CDT MON SEP 16 2013 ...INGRID WEAKENS TO A TROPICAL STORM  AS IT MAKES LANDFALL NEAR LA PESCA... ...HEAVY RAINS SPREADING INLAND...
WIND:	DECREASED TO NEAR 65 MPH...100 KM/H...WITH HIGHER GUSTS.
WATCHES/ WARNINGS:	A TROPICAL STORM WARNING IS IN EFFECT FOR... * CABO ROJO NORTHWARD TO RIO SAN FERNANDO
SHIP IMPACT:	NONE

Storm Archive     Graphics Archive

This is the second storm of the Atlantic season to form in the Gulf of Mexico, and once again a powerful one, becoming the second Hurricane as well.   The same part of Mexico that is just recovering from Humberto is once again under heavy rainfall and winds.

NHC ACTIVE STORMS (CLICK HERE)

Real-Time Cruise Ship Tracking

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HURRICANES (CLICK HERE)

Not the storm you are looking for?  Click Image or Here

  
SUMMARY OF 700 AM CDT...1200 UTC...INFORMATION
----------------------------------------------
LOCATION...23.8N 97.8W
ABOUT 0 MI...0 KM N OF LA PESCA MEXICO
MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS...65 MPH...100 KM/H
PRESENT MOVEMENT...WNW OR 295 DEGREES AT 10 MPH...17 KM/H
MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE...991 MB...29.26 INCHES

MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS HAVE DECREASED TO NEAR 65 MPH...100
KM/H...WITH HIGHER GUSTS.  ADDITIONAL WEAKENING IS FORECAST AS
INGRID MOVES INLAND TODAY.

TROPICAL STORM FORCE WINDS EXTEND OUTWARD UP TO 105 MILES...165
KM...MAINLY NORTHEAST OF THE CENTER. 

HAZARDS AFFECTING LAND
----------------------
RAINFALL...INGRID IS EXPECTED TO PRODUCE 10 TO 15 INCHES OF RAIN
OVER A LARGE PART OF EASTERN MEXICO...WITH ISOLATED AMOUNTS OF 25
INCHES POSSIBLE...ESPECIALLY IN AREAS OF MOUNTAINOUS TERRAIN. THESE
RAINS ARE LIKELY TO RESULT IN LIFE-THREATENING FLASH FLOODS AND MUD
SLIDES.

WIND...TROPICAL STORM CONDITIONS ARE SPREADING OVER THE COAST WITHIN
THE WARNING AREA. 

STORM SURGE...A DANGEROUS STORM SURGE WILL RAISE WATER LEVELS BY AS
MUCH AS 2 TO 4 FEET ABOVE NORMAL TIDE LEVELS ALONG THE IMMEDIATE
COAST NEAR AND TO THE NORTH OF WHERE THE CENTER OF INGRID MAKES
LANDFALL.  NEAR THE COAST...THE SURGE WILL BE ACCOMPANIED BY LARGE

AND DESTRUCTIVE WAVES.

HISTORICAL DATA:

400 PM CDT THU SEP 12 2013
 
...TROPICAL DEPRESSION FORMS IN THE SOUTHERN GULF OF MEXICO...
...EXTREME RAINFALL EXPECTED OVER PORTIONS OF EASTERN MEXICO...

1000 AM CDT FRI SEP 13 2013
 
...THE NINTH TROPICAL STORM OF THE SEASON FORMS IN THE GULF OF
MEXICO...

100 PM CDT SAT SEP 14 2013
 
...INGRID EXPECTED TO BECOME A HURRICANE THIS AFTERNOON...

400 PM CDT SAT SEP 14 2013
 
...INGRID BECOMES THE SECOND HURRICANE OF THE 2013 SEASON...
  

THE GOVERNMENT OF MEXICO HAS ADJUSTED THE PREVIOUS WATCHES AND
WARNINGS FOR THE GULF COAST. A HURRICANE WARNING HAS BEEN ISSUED
FROM CABO ROJO TO LA PESCA. A TROPICAL STORM WARNING HAS BEEN
ISSUED FROM NORTH OF LA PESCA TO BAHIA ALGODONES...AND FROM SOUTH
OF CABO ROJO TO TUXPAN. THE TROPICAL STORM WARNING FROM
COATZACOALCOS TO SOUTH OF TUXPAN HAS BEEN DISCONTINUED.

700 AM CDT MON SEP 16 2013

...INGRID WEAKENS TO A TROPICAL STORM AS IT MAKES LANDFALL 
NEAR LA PESCA...
...HEAVY RAINS SPREADING INLAND... 

THE GOVERNMENT OF MEXICO HAS DISCONTINUED THE HURRICANE WARNING 
AND HURRICANE WATCH.  THE TROPICAL STORM WARNING SOUTH OF CABO ROJO
HAS BEEN DISCONTINUED. 

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Meet Us at ChamberFest 2013

Visit Our Booth
Streamwood ChamberFest 2013

Attention car enthusiasts - don't miss the 2013 Streamwood ChamberFest & Car Show this Saturday from 10 AM - 2 PM. There will be several racing cars present as well as some of the local favorites from our monthly shows that are held at The Loop Bar & Grill in Streamwood.

Would you like to see some of the fastest cars in the world compete?

We'll have information at our booth about the 2014 Grand Prix voyages on Azamara Club Cruises.

Ask about Grand Prix Voyages

Monaco Grand Prix. Join us for the renowned Monaco Grand Prix, one of the world's most challenging Formula One races through the narrow streets of Monte-Carlo. The thrill of screaming engines and burning tires is matched by glamorous crowds and yachts, buzzing helicopters, and celebrities who know a good party when they see one.

You can select from a 4 Night or 8 Night voyage, both of which will be in Monaco on race day.  Whether you purchase Grand Prix tickets and watch the race, visit the Grand Casino, or other nearby attractions, your day in Monaco will certainly be one of the highlights of your cruise vacation.

Fast Cars Not Your Thing
How About Bumper Cars

Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas which is currently under construction will feature a multi-purpose entertainment complex which will include bumper cars.

In addition to bumper cars, the ship will include many of the features from the Oasis-class along with some new innovations such as  a parachuting simulator, virtual balconies and many more.  Studio staterooms will allow solo travelers to enjoy their space, inside and out, with 12 of the 28 cabins including balconies.

 Related Blog Articles:

Quantum Changes for Cruisers
Prepare to be WOWED – The Quantum Class
Royal Caribbean Has a New Star
Two Sisters Under Construction

Visit our Quantum of the Seas Microsite

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Patriot Day 2013

President Proclaims Patriot Day, Day of Remembrance  
By a joint resolution approved December 18, 2001 (Public Law 107-89), the Congress has designated September 11 of each year as “Patriot Day,” and by Public Law 111-13, approved April 21, 2009, the Congress has requested the observance of September 11 as an annually recognized “National Day of Service and Remembrance”. President Obama officially proclaimed September 11, 2013, as Patriot Day.

In his remarks, the President said "Twelve years ago this month, nearly three thousand innocent men, women, and children lost their lives in attacks meant to terrorize our Nation. They had been going about their day, harming no one, when sudden violence struck. We will never undo the pain and injustice borne that terrible morning, nor will we ever forget those we lost."

He continued, "On September 11, 2001, amid shattered glass, twisted steel, and clouds of dust, the spirit of America shone through. We remember the sacrifice of strangers and first responders who rushed into darkness to carry others from danger. We remember the unbreakable bonds of unity we felt in the long days that followed -- how we held each other, how we came to our neighbors' aid, how we prayed for one another. We recall how Americans of every station joined together to support the survivors in their hour of need and to heal our Nation in the years that followed.”

View Gallery (Click image for Yahoo album)

Remembering 9/11/2001

Each year we recall where we were when learning about the terrorist attacks.   We were on the inaugural voyage of Norwegian Sun, thousands of miles from home in Paris, France.   Our tour bus was filled with our fellow passengers, the majority of whom lived in New York.  The transatlantic cruise, we were on, was originally scheduled to conclude in New York but ended in Boston instead.

What was to have been a celebration of our 25th Anniversary, quickly became a very unique experience as we observed the hospitality and caring from so many people across the globe as our journey home continued.

See our article from 2011, FDNY May We Never Forget, on the 10th anniversary, as we recalled our journey back to New York to visit the site of the World Trade Center attacks.  Should your cruise vacation plans include New York, we recommend spending some time at the WTC Memorial and other historic sites in the city.

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TS Humberto Expected to Become First Atlantic Hurricane

Interactive Map

Tropical Storm HUMBERTO

(Sep 16) Humberto becomes a tropical storm again and it is forecast to strengthen again as it turns noth-northwest.

(Sep 10) Humberto is expected to strengthen later today and become a Hurricane.  Meanwhile, TS Gabrielle has regenerated and has its sights on Bermuda where Tropical Storm Warnings are in effect.  Tropical Storm Gabrielle Forms in Atlantic

Tropical Storm  HUMBERTO	1100 AM AST MON SEP 16 2013 ...HUMBERTO BECOMES A TROPICAL STORM AGAIN... ...FORECAST TO SLOWLY STRENGTHEN WHILE TURNING NORTH-NORTHWESTWARD...
WIND:	NEAR 40 MPH...65 KM/H...WITH HIGHER GUSTS
WATCHES/ WARNINGS:	THERE ARE NO COASTAL WATCHES OR WARNINGS IN EFFECT.
SHIP IMPACT:	NONE

Storm Archive      Graphics Archive

As is typical for this time of year, a disturbance near the Cape Verde islands is expected to strengthen into a tropical storm.   We will monitor this storms as it heads across the Atlantic.

NHC ACTIVE STORMS (CLICK HERE)

Real-Time Cruise Ship Tracking

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HURRICANES (CLICK HERE)

Not the storm you are looking for?  Click Image or Here

  
SUMMARY OF 1100 AM AST...1500 UTC...INFORMATION
-----------------------------------------------
LOCATION...27.2N 43.2W
ABOUT 1200 MI...1930 KM SW OF THE AZORES
MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS...40 MPH...65 KM/H
PRESENT MOVEMENT...WNW OR 300 DEGREES AT 8 MPH...13 KM/H
MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE...1007 MB...29.74 INCHES

MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS ARE NEAR 40 MPH...65 KM/H...WITH HIGHER
GUSTS.  SLOW STRENGTHENING IS FORECAST DURING THE NEXT 48 HOURS.

HAZARDS AFFECTING LAND
----------------------
none

HISTORICAL DATA:

500 PM AST SUN SEP 08 2013
 
...TROPICAL DEPRESSION FORMS OVER THE FAR EASTERN ATLANTIC...
...TROPICAL STORM WARNING ISSUED FOR THE SOUTHERN CAPE VERDE
ISLANDS...

500 AM AST MON SEP 09 2013
 
...DEPRESSION STRENGTHENS INTO TROPICAL STORM HUMBERTO SOUTH OF THE
CAPE VERDE ISLANDS...

A TROPICAL STORM WARNING IS IN EFFECT FOR...
* THE SOUTHERN CAPE VERDE ISLANDS OF MAIO...SANTIAGO...FOGO...AND
BRAVA

1100 PM AST MON SEP 09 2013
 
...HUMBERTO STILL STRENGTHENING... 

500 PM AST MON SEP 09 2013
 
...HUMBERTO CONTINUES TO STRENGTHEN...
...TROPICAL STORM WARNING FOR THE CAPE VERDE ISLANDS DISCONTINUED...
  

500 AM AST TUE SEP 10 2013
 
...HUMBERTO ON A STRENGTHENING TREND...
...FORECAST TO BECOME A HURRICANE LATER TODAY...

500 PM AST TUE SEP 10 2013

...HUMBERTO ALMOST A HURRICANE... 

500 AM AST WED SEP 11 2013
 
...HUMBERTO BECOMES THE FIRST HURRICANE OF THE SEASON OVER THE FAR
EASTERN ATLANTIC...

500 AM AST THU SEP 12 2013
 
...HUMBERTO MAINTAINING ITS STRENGTH WHILE CONTINUING NORTHWARD... 

500 AM AST FRI SEP 13 2013
 
...HUMBERTO LOSING STRENGTH...
...EXPECTED TO WEAKEN TO A TROPICAL STORM LATER TODAY... 

1100 PM AST FRI SEP 13 2013
 
...HUMBERTO CONTINUES TO WEAKEN AS IT MOVES WESTWARD...
...EXPECTED TO BECOME A REMNANT LOW ON SATURDAY... 

1100 AM AST SAT SEP 14 2013
 
...HUMBERTO BECOMES A POST-TROPICAL CYCLONE...
...EXPECTED TO REGENERATE IN A COUPLE OF DAYS...
  

1100 AM AST MON SEP 16 2013

...HUMBERTO BECOMES A TROPICAL STORM AGAIN...
...FORECAST TO SLOWLY STRENGTHEN WHILE TURNING
NORTH-NORTHWESTWARD... 

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Viking River Increases Longship Order

ADDING 14 SHIPS IN 2014

Viking Cruises announced that they have increased their Viking Longship order from 12 to 14 vessels for delivery in 2014.  The new ships will sail the line's most popular European itineraries.  The increased order reflects the popularity of river cruising as the fastest growing-segment of the travel industry and the leadership position of Viking, the world’s leading river cruise line.

With the addition of these new Longships,Viking River Cruises will have increased its fleet by 30 ships since 2011.  This is the most rapid expansion the industry has seen.  If one were to add all the ships of their competitors together, they would still rank #1.

“We are working hard to match supply with demand, and with these new builds, we have the best designed, newest and most extensive offer of ships on the rivers – more than double all our competitors combined,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking Cruises. “More than ever, travelers want experiences that bring them closer to the destination, which is why we continue to design ships and itineraries with destinations and enrichment as the focus.”

For those that are unfamiliar with river cruising, it brings an entirely new dimension to the cruise experience.  Due to the size of the vessels, it is possible for them to dock right in the heart of the destination's town.  There is no need for an elaborate pier infrastructure.  The ship could even tie up to a tree, as they due in some of the remote parts of the globe.

Walk off the ship and right into the center of action. In most cases, there is no need for a long bus ride to begin seeing the sites.   Due to the size of the ships, there are much fewer guests onboard as well, making for a more intimate experience as you get to know your fellow passengers during the cruise.

Since the number of cabins is limited on the ships, the only way for Viking River to satisfy demand is by adding additional ships.  If you'd like to try this method of cruising, you need to plan early.

RIVER CRUISING GUIDE - Discover the Beauty of River Cruising Watch videos about the Longships: World Record Ship Launching Viking River Cruises 2012 Fleet Upgrades Viking Longboats Christened Viking River Cruises Longships Update A Cruise Line is Born (Viking Cruises)

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Parbuckling of Costa Concordia Approved

The Parbuckling Project: Concordia wreck removal project informative website

UPDATE 16 Sep 2013:

Parbuckling of Costa Concordia Begins 

Press release by Italian Civil Protection

According to the press release (6 Sep 2013), "The operation to right the ship Costa Concordia (known as “parbuckling”) has been given the go-ahead for this month: this was the outcome of a meeting convened in Rome today at the headquarters of the Civil Protection Department, by the Emergency Commissioner Franco Gabrielli, and attended by representatives from the Advisory Committee, the Observatory, the Micoperi-Titan Consortium and the cruise line Costa Crociere."   

Full Text of Press Release

Before the actual work takes place, authorities will need to review test certificates, inspect the structures, and complete preliminary activities.  No date for the actual parbuckling was given in the press release.

The overall project is 77% completed and is being carried out by a crew of 474 workers and 28 vessels and crafts on site. For a video and additional details of the salvage operation, see Costa Concordia Salvage Begins.

Main article: Costa Concordia Listing after Deadly Accident

Read More

Tropical Depression Eight in Gulf of Mexico

Tropical Depression EIGHT

Tropical Depression EIGHT	400 AM CDT SAT SEP 07 2013 ...DEPRESSION WEAKENS OVER THE HIGH MOUNTAINS OF MEXICO...
WIND:	NEAR 30 MPH...45 KM/H...WITH HIGHER GUSTS.
WATCHES/ WARNINGS:	THERE ARE NO COASTAL WATCHES OR WARNINGS IN EFFECT
SHIP IMPACT:	NONE

Storm Archive      Graphics Archive

The low pressure area near Tampico Mexico is expected to move inland before becoming a tropical cyclone, but it is likely to bring 3 to 5 inches of rainfall and as much as 8 inches in the Mexican states of Veracruz and Tamaulipas during the next few days.   Heavy winds, near tropical storm strength, are also expected which means that the area should be prepared to take appropriate actions just as they would if the tropical storm had already formed.

NHC ACTIVE STORMS (CLICK HERE)

Real-Time Cruise Ship Tracking

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HURRICANES (CLICK HERE)

Not the storm you are looking for?  Click Image or Here

  
SUMMARY OF 400 AM CDT...0900 UTC...INFORMATION
----------------------------------------------
LOCATION...21.4N 99.3W
ABOUT 105 MI...170 KM WSW OF TAMPICO MEXICO
MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS...30 MPH...45 KM/H
PRESENT MOVEMENT...WSW OR 250 DEGREES AT 7 MPH...11 KM/H
MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE...1009 MB...29.80 INCHES

HAZARDS AFFECTING LAND
----------------------
RAINFALL...HEAVY RAINS WILL LIKELY CONTINUE OVER THE MEXICAN STATES
OF VERACRUZ...EASTERN SAN LUIS POTOSI AND TAMAULIPAS. THESE RAINS
COULD CAUSE LIFE-THREATENING FLASH FLOODS AND MUD SLIDES.

HISTORICAL DATA:

130 PM CDT FRI SEP 06 2013
 
...TROPICAL DEPRESSION FORMS ALONG THE COAST OF MEXICO NEAR
TAMPICO...
...CENTER MAKING LANDFALL AT THIS TIME...

WIND...WIND GUSTS TO TROPICAL STORM FORCE ARE POSSIBLE IN A FEW
SQUALLS OVER PORTIONS OF THE MEXICAN STATES OF VERACRUZ AND
TAMAULIPAS TODAY AND TONIGHT.
 
RAINFALL...THE DEPRESSION IS EXPECTED TO CAUSE TOTAL RAINFALL OF 3
TO 5 INCHES...WITH ISOLATED MAXIMUM AMOUNTS OF 10 INCHES...IN THE
MEXICAN STATES OF VERACRUZ AND TAMAULIPAS.  THESE RAINS COULD CAUSE
LIFE-THREATENING FLASH FLOODS AND MUD SLIDES. 

400 PM CDT FRI SEP 06 2013
 
...CENTER OF THE DEPRESSION MOVING INLAND OVER EASTERN MEXICO...

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Special Tropical Outlook Published for Atlantic

Special Tropical Weather Outlook (en Español*) 

Heavy Rainfall for Parts of Mexico 

1130 AM EDT FRI SEP 6 2013 

FOR THE NORTH ATLANTIC...CARIBBEAN SEA AND THE GULF OF MEXICO... 

SPECIAL OUTLOOK ISSUED TO PROVIDE UPDATE 

ON THE SYSTEM IN THE GULF OF MEXICO. 

GULF OF MEXICO

We have entered into the most active time of the 2013 Atlantic Hurricane Season and the image above reflects several potential storms that are being tracked today by the National Hurricane Center in Miami, Florida. The yellow color indicates that none of the storms have a high risk of developing into tropical cyclones in the next 48 hours, but that doesn't mean that there won't be associated weather (eg. heavy rains) in the area of the developing storms.

In particular,  the low pressure area near Tampico Mexico is expected to move inland before becoming a tropical cyclone, but it is likely to bring 3 to 5 inches of rainfall and as much as 8 inches in the Mexican states of Veracruz and Tamaulipas during the next few days.   Heavy winds, near tropical storm strength, are also expected which means that the area should be prepared to take appropriate actions just as they would if the tropical storm had already formed.

See: Tropical Depression Eight in Gulf of Mexico

REMNANTS of GABRIELLE

Unfavorable conditions are preventing the further development of the remnants from Tropical Storm Gabrielle, but that doesn't mean that development is completely out of the question.  Once the storm moves further northwestward, over open Atlantic waters, it could redevelop as it heads towards Bermuda.

OTHER DEVELOPMENT

This time of year, storms near Cape Verde Islands are pretty common and often those storms are the ones that make landfall in the U.S. on the east coast.   There is a low pressure system in the area, but there isn't an immediate risk of the storm becoming a tropical cyclone.

Click on the link above for the complete text of the Special Bulletin.

Read More

Tropical Depression 12-E Expected to Become TS Lorena Today

Tropical Storm LORENA

Tropical Depression LORENA	800 AM PDT SAT SEP 07 2013 ...LORENA CONTINUES MOVING WEST-NORTHWESTWARD....
WIND:	NEAR 35 MPH...55 KM/H...WITH HIGHER GUSTS
WATCHES/ WARNINGS:	THERE ARE NO COASTAL WATCHES OR WARNINGS IN EFFECT.
SHIP IMPACT:	NO CRUISE SHIPS IMPACTED

      Storm Archive       Graphics Archive 

A new tropical depression, TD 12-E formed this morning and is expected to become Tropical Storm Lorena  It is currently southwest of Mexico.  The storm is expected to begin weakening on Sunday.

NHC ACTIVE STORMS (CLICK HERE)

Real-Time Cruise Ship Tracking

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HURRICANES (CLICK HERE)

Not the storm you are looking for?  Click Image or Here

SUMMARY OF 800 AM PDT...1500 UTC...INFORMATION
----------------------------------------------
LOCATION...23.8N 111.8W
ABOUT 75 MI...120 KM SSE OF CABO SAN LAZARO MEXICO
ABOUT 135 MI...220 KM WNW OF CABO SAN LUCAS MEXICO
MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS...35 MPH...55 KM/H
PRESENT MOVEMENT...WNW OR 300 DEGREES AT 6 MPH...9 KM/H
MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE...1007 MB...29.74 INCHES

HAZARDS AFFECTING LAND
----------------------
NONE

 Historical Data:

200 AM PDT THU SEP 05 2013
 
...TROPICAL DEPRESSION FORMS OFF THE SOUTHWEST COAST OF MEXICO.... 

800 AM PDT THU SEP 05 2013
 
...TROPICAL STORM WATCH ISSUED FOR SOUTHERN BAJA CALIFORNIA... 

200 PM PDT THU SEP 05 2013
 
...TROPICAL STORM WARNINGS COULD BE ISSUED FOR LORENA LATER
TONIGHT... 

1100 PM PDT FRI SEP 06 2013
 
...LORENA WEAKENS TO A TROPICAL DEPRESSION NEAR THE SOUTHERN BAJA
CALIFORNIA PENINSULA...

THE GOVERNMENT OF MEXICO HAS DISCONTINUED ALL TROPICAL STORM WATCHES
AND WARNINGS. 

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Tropical Storm Gabrielle Forms in Atlantic

Interactive Map of Gabrielle

Tropical Storm GABRIELLE

(Sep 11) TS Gabrielle is now west of Bermuda and tropical storm warnings have been discontinued.  The storm is continuing its trek across the Atlantic with the next stop Canada.  Tropical Storm warnings will be posted in a few days for Nova Scotia and other ports in that region.

(Sep 10) Winds, showers, heavy at times, and thunderstorm potential will continue to increase as TS Gabrielle makes its final approach to Bermuda. Tropical storm force winds are expected this evening and will remain into early Wednesday afternoon. Tropical moisture will linger through the end of the week with a few showers and mainly moderate winds. Radar imagery is now available. SOURCE: Bermuda Weather Service

Department of Marine & Ports Services

Tropical Storm GABRIELLE	800 AM AST WED SEP 11 2013 ...GABRIELLE MEANDERING JUST WEST OF BERMUDA... ...TROPICAL STORM WARNING DISCONTINUED...
WIND:	NEAR 50 MPH...85 KM/H...WITH HIGHER GUSTS.
WATCHES/ WARNINGS:	THE BERMUDA WEATHER SERVICE HAS DISCONTINUED  THE TROPICAL STORM WARNING FOR BERMUDA.
SHIP IMPACT:	(Sep 10) Norwegian Dawn - Overnight in Bermuda, leave by mid-morning Wednesday Norwegian Breakaway - Arriving late on Wednesday (around noon)

Storm Archive      Graphics Archive

A disturbance in the East Caribbean Sea has taken the traditional circular shape of a tropical cyclone and has become Tropical Storm Garbrielle.  It is currently producing heavy rains in Puerto Rico and will threaten the Dominican Republic as well.   The storm is forecast to take a north / northwest turn later in the week, heading towards Bermuda.  This storm has the potential for impacting cruise schedules.  We will monitor this storm closely.

NHC ACTIVE STORMS (CLICK HERE)

Real-Time Cruise Ship Tracking

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HURRICANES (CLICK HERE)

Not the storm you are looking for?  Click Image or Here

  
SUMMARY OF 800 PM AST...0000 UTC...INFORMATION
----------------------------------------------
LOCATION...31.9N 64.9W
ABOUT 30 MI...45 KM SSW OF BERMUDA
MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS...60 MPH...95 KM/H
PRESENT MOVEMENT...N OR 360 DEGREES AT 10 MPH...17 KM/H
MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE...1004 MB...29.65 INCHES

ON THE FORECAST TRACK...GABRIELLE IS EXPECTED TO PASS
OVER OR NEAR BERMUDA IN THE NEXT FEW HOURS.

HAZARDS AFFECTING LAND
----------------------
WIND...TROPICAL STORM FORCE WIND GUSTS COULD CONTINUE ON BERMUDA FOR
THE NEXT FEW HOURS...ESPECIALLY AT ELEVATED LOCATIONS. 

RAINFALL...GABRIELLE IS EXPECTED TO PRODUCE ADDITIONAL RAINFALL
AMOUNTS OF 1 TO 3 INCHES OVER BERMUDA.

STORM SURGE...ROUGH SURF CONDITIONS WILL CONTINUE TO AFFECT BERMUDA
TODAY.

HISTORICAL DATA:

500 PM AST WED SEP 04 2013
 
...TROPICAL DEPRESSION FORMS SOUTH OF PUERTO RICO...
...TROPICAL STORM WARNINGS ISSUED...

A TROPICAL STORM WARNING IS IN EFFECT FOR...
* PUERTO RICO
* DOMINICAN REPUBLIC FROM CABO ENGANO TO CABO FRANCES VIEJO
 
A TROPICAL STORM WATCH IS IN EFFECT FOR...
* DOMINICAN REPUBLIC FROM SANTO DOMINGO TO CABO ENGANO 

1100 PM AST WED SEP 04 2013
 
...DEPRESSION BECOMES TROPICAL STORM GABRIELLE...
...HEAVY RAIN EXPECTED OVER PORTIONS OF PUERTO RICO AND THE
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC.. 

800 AM AST THU SEP 05 2013
 
...DISORGANIZED GABRIELLE STILL BRINGING HEAVY RAINS TO PUERTO RICO
AND ADJACENT ISLANDS... 

1100 PM AST THU SEP 05 2013
 
...GABRIELLE DISSIPATES...
...HEAVY RAIN THREAT CONTINUES OVER PUERTO RICO AND THE U.S. VIRGIN
ISLANDS... 

*** No Warnings Issued on SEP 06 - SEP 09 *** 

500 AM AST TUE SEP 10 2013
 
...GABRIELLE REGENERATES INTO A TROPICAL STORM SOUTH OF BERMUDA...
...TROPICAL STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FOR BERMUDA...

500 PM AST TUE SEP 10 2013
 
...WIND INCREASING ON BERMUDA AS STRENGTHENING GABRIELLE
APPROACHES...
  

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The Sea is Calling and Barbie Answered

 Making Holiday Dreams

Come True 

for Little Girls

Just in time for the Holidays  

Save 30% Off the Experience
Click to download flyer

Since March 1959, Barbie^TM dolls have been an integral part of little girls' dreams and an important part of the fashion doll market.  As the holidays approach, little girls make up their wish lists of dolls and accessories for their toy chests. 

Taking things one step further, Royal Caribbean International has entered into a partnership with American toy-company Mattel, Inc. to bring the fashion dolls to sea in an exclusive add-on package.

The Barbie^TM Premium Experience, caters to girls age 4 to 11, but is open to anyone that loves Barbie.  Guests set sail on a Barbie dream cruise complete with fun, fashion and runway moments. Participants make lifelong memories and take to the waves in true Barbie style!


The experience starts in your stateroom with a decorated vanity area and special Barbie package including a Barbie^TM doll, three fashion accessories, blanket, pillowcase and toiletries. There are events throughout the cruise designed exclusively for children in the program that include a tea party, dance class, fashion design experience and fashion show.

The program fee for the Barbie^TM Premium Experience is $349 per child. For 3-4 night Bahamas sailings guests will receive a limited experience (no tea party or fashion designer workshop and smaller in-stateroom package) for $75. Once booked there are no additional charges for the activities included in the Premium Experience. 

Did you play with Barbie, Ken, and their playmates when you were growing up?   Would you daughters like to do so as well?   What was your favorite doll or accessory?  Don't you wish you could be a kid again (I know that I would.)?   Bring Barbie and her friends to life on one of Royal Caribbean's ships and watch the sparkle in the little girl's eyes.

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Syria Crisis Impacts Cruise Itineraries

Photo courtesy Holland America Blog

Holland America Noordam

Skips Israel Ports

The crisis in Syria has had its first impact on cruise line itineraries as Holland America Line skipped calls in Haifa and Jerusalem this week citing “the uncertainties of possible military action against Syria and the potential of resulting Syrian attacks on Israel.” as reason for the itinerary changes.

The line replaced these calls with visits to Bodrum and Antalya, Turkey, and Nafplion, Greece.

We previously reported, in Must be Summer - Egypt Calls Canceled, that Noordam had replaced port calls in Port Said & Alexandria with these ports in Israel due to the unrest in Egypt.

Unrest in the Region

As tensions rise in the region, cruise lines and governments will be closely monitoring developments and making adjustments and recommendations as warranted.   As always, regardless of where you are traveling, citizens of the United States and all countries, should be vigilant of their surroundings while abroad.

Here are some resources to help you stay up to date on developments:

Israel, the West Bank and Gaza Country Specific Information

Egypt Country Specific Information

Syria Country Specific Information

International Travel (U.S. Dept. of State)

 

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) 

 

 

POPE FRANCIS CALLS FOR WORLDWIDE DAY OF PRAYER AND FASTING FOR PEACE IN SYRIA, IN THE MIDDLE EAST AND IN THE WORLD. ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7th

 

The Pope is calling on people of all faiths to unite in prayer this coming weekend for peace in Syria, Middle East, and the world.

 

 Read More: THE POPE CONVOKES A DAY OF PRAYER AND PENANCE FOR PEACE IN THE MIDDLE EAST

We will continue to monitor this developing story as unrest continues to impact the travel industry.

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Tropical Storm Kiko Forming in East Pacific

Tropical Storm KIKO

Tropical Storm KIKO	800 AM PDT MON SEP 02 2013 ...KIKO EXPECTED TO WEAKEN  INTO A REMNANT LOW LATER TODAY...
WIND:	NEAR 35 MPH...55 KM/H...WITH HIGHER GUSTS.
WATCHES/ WARNINGS:	NO COASTAL WATCHES OR WARNINGS IN EFFECT
SHIP IMPACT:	NO CRUISE SHIPS IMPACTED

      Storm Archive       Graphics Archive

A new tropical depression, TD 11-E formed Friday night and is expected to become Tropical Storm Kiko on Saturday.  It is currently well southwest of Mexico.  The storm is expected to begin weakening on Sunday.

NHC ACTIVE STORMS (CLICK HERE)

Real-Time Cruise Ship Tracking

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HURRICANES (CLICK HERE)

Not the storm you are looking for?  Click Image or Here

SUMMARY OF 800 AM PDT...1500 UTC...INFORMATION
----------------------------------------------
LOCATION...22.9N 116.4W
ABOUT 415 MI...665 KM W OF THE SOUTHERN TIP OF BAJA CALIFORNIA
MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS...35 MPH...55 KM/H
PRESENT MOVEMENT...NW OR 325 DEGREES AT 2 MPH...4 KM/H
MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE...1005 MB...29.68 INCHES

 Historical Data:

800 PM PDT FRI AUG 30 2013
 
...NEW TROPICAL DEPRESSION FORMS WELL SOUTHWEST OF MEXICO...

200 PM PDT SAT AUG 31 2013
 
...DEPRESSION HAS RAPIDLY INTENSIFIED TO BECOME TROPICAL STORM
KIKO...

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Tropical Storm Juliette in East Pacific

Tropical Storm JULIETTE

Post-Tropical JULIETTE	800 PM PDT THU AUG 29 2013 ...JULIETTE BECOMES A REMNANT LOW... ...THIS IS THE LAST ADVISORY...
WIND:	NEAR 30 MPH...45 KM/H...WITH HIGHER GUSTS.
WATCHES/ WARNINGS:	NO COASTAL WATCHES OR WARNINGS IN EFFECT
SHIP IMPACT:	NO CRUISE SHIPS IMPACTED

      Storm Archive       Graphics Archive

A small tropical storm formed off the coast of Baja California peninsula prompting tropical storm warnings for the area. It has since weakened into a post-tropical cyclone.

NHC ACTIVE STORMS (CLICK HERE)

Real-Time Cruise Ship Tracking

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HURRICANES (CLICK HERE)

Not the storm you are looking for?  Click Image or Here

SUMMARY OF 800 PM PDT...0300 UTC...INFORMATION
----------------------------------------------
LOCATION...26.7N 114.8W
ABOUT 205 MI...330 KM NW OF CABO SAN LAZARO MEXICO
ABOUT 80 MI...125 KM SSE OF PUNTA EUGENIA MEXICO
MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS...30 MPH...45 KM/H
PRESENT MOVEMENT...NW OR 310 DEGREES AT 14 MPH...22 KM/H
MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE...1008 MB...29.77 INCHES

 Historical Data:

200 PM PDT WED AUG 28 2013
 
...SMALL TROPICAL STORM FORMS NEAR THE BAJA CALIFORNIA PENINSULA...
...TROPICAL STORM WARNING ISSUED...

500 PM PDT WED AUG 28 2013
 
...CENTER OF JULIETTE APPROACHING CABO SAN LUCAS...

RAINFALL...JULIETTE IS EXPECTED TO PRODUCE TOTAL RAIN ACCUMULATIONS
OF 1 TO 3 INCHES OVER SOUTHERN PORTIONS OF THE BAJA CALIFORNIA
PENINSULA.

800 AM PDT THU AUG 29 2013
 
...JULIETTE WEAKENS AS IT MOVES ALONG THE WEST COAST OF BAJA
CALIFORNIA PENINSULA... 

200 PM PDT THU AUG 29 2013
 
...JULIETTE WEAKENS TO A TROPICAL DEPRESSION...

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Unexpected Dry Dock Ends Alaska Sailing Season Early

Celebrity Millennium

2013 Alaska Season

Over in Ketchikan

Celebrity Millennium has been experiencing mechanical problems since early August, resulting in the early termination of its latest cruise and cancellation of 4 sailings ending the Alaska sailing season early for the vessel.

During the August 2nd sailing, the ship was delayed coming into port at the end of the cruise.   The ship made news as it was stranded in Seward during the August 9th sailing for emergency repairs. The ship bypassed all ports, sailing directly to Vancouver.

The final straw was on the August 16th sailing when the ship was stranded in Ketchikan in need of additional repairs.  Celebrity then decided to cancel the four remaining cruises and transition the ship to Freeport, Bahamas where it can undergo maintenance at the dry dock facility.

Celebrity Cruises provided charted air transportation for all passengers as well as compensation for the cancelled cruises.   

This is not the first time this year that Celebrity Millennium has had propulsion problems.   Itineraries were impacted in April (see Celebrity Millennium Itinerary Change).

 Propulsion: 2 × 19 MW Rolls-Royce/Alstom Mermaid azimuth thrusters

The Celebrity Millennium-class were the first of the larger class ships to be introduced to the Celebrity fleet later being  joined by the modern and popular Solstice-class ships.   Propulsion problems have often occurred with the azipod system, which improves maneuverability of the vessel.  In many of the previous cases, problems could be repaired by the onboard mechanics.   When they can't be resolved, unexpected dry docks, like the current one, result.

Hopefully the impacted passengers will be able to return to Alaska another time.  We are certain that Celebrity Cruises made the decision to cancel the remaining cruises after exhausting all other options.

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Tropical Storm Fernand Forms in Atlantic

Interactive Map of Fernand

Tropical Storm FERNAND

Tropical Storm FERNAND	400 PM CDT MON AUG 26 2013 ...FERNAND DISSIPATES OVER MEXICO... ...THIS IS THE LAST ADVISORY...
WIND:	NEAR 30 MPH...45 KM/H...WITH HIGHER GUSTS.
WATCHES/ WARNINGS:	NO COASTAL WATCHES OR WARNINGS IN EFFECT
SHIP IMPACT:	NONE

Storm Archive       Graphics Archive

A new cyclone system formed  in the soutwestern Bay of Campeche prompting warnings for portions of the Gulf Coast of Mexico.  The tropical depression grew into Tropical Storm Fernand.

NHC ACTIVE STORMS (CLICK HERE)

Real-Time Cruise Ship Tracking

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HURRICANES (CLICK HERE)

Not the storm you are looking for?  Click Image or Here

  
SUMMARY OF 400 PM CDT...2100 UTC...INFORMATION
----------------------------------------------
LOCATION...20.6N 98.5W
ABOUT 75 MI...125 KM WSW OF TUXPAN MEXICO
MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS...30 MPH...45 KM/H
PRESENT MOVEMENT...WNW OR 295 DEGREES AT 9 MPH...15 KM/H
MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE...1009 MB...29.80 INCHES
 

HAZARDS AFFECTING LAND
----------------------
RAINFALL...STORM-TOTAL AMOUNTS FROM FERNAND AND ITS REMNANTS OF 4 TO
8 INCHES ARE EXPECTED OVER VERACRUZ...HIDALGO...NORTHERN
PUEBLA...SOUTHERN TAMAULIPAS...AND EASTERN SAN LUIS POTOSI
MEXICO...WITH ISOLATED MAXIMUM AMOUNTS NEAR 15 INCHES POSSIBLE. 
THESE RAINS COULD CAUSE LIFE-THREATENING FLASH FLOODS AND MUD
SLIDES. 

HISTORICAL DATA:

400 PM CDT SUN AUG 25 2013

...TROPICAL DEPRESSION FORMS IN THE SOUTHWESTERN BAY OF CAMPECHE...
...TROPICAL STORM WARNING ISSUED FOR PORTIONS OF GULF COAST OF
MEXICO... 

600 PM CDT SUN AUG 25 2013
 
...DEPRESSION STRENGTHENS INTO TROPICAL STORM FERNAND OVER THE
WESTERN BAY OF CAMPECHE...

100 AM CDT MON AUG 26 2013
 
...FERNAND BEGINNING TO MOVE INLAND...
...THREAT OF HEAVY RAINS CONTINUES...

A TROPICAL STORM WARNING IS IN EFFECT FOR...
* GULF COAST OF MEXICO FROM VERACRUZ NORTHWARD TO BARRA DE NAUTLA

700 AM CDT MON AUG 26 2013
 
...FERNAND BRINGING HEAVY RAINS TO EASTERN MEXICO...

1000 AM CDT MON AUG 26 2013
 
...HEAVY RAINS CONTINUE OVER EASTERN MEXICO AS FERNAND
WEAKENS TO A TROPICAL DEPRESSION...

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