Arrocane Arlene
 | |
| Meteorological history | |
|---|---|
| Formed | May 19, 2019 |
| Extratropical | May 27, 2019 |
| Dissipated | May 30, 2019 |
| Very intense arrocane | |
| 10-minute sustained (FML) | |
| Highest winds | 155 mph (250 km/h) |
| Lowest pressure | 899 mbar (hPa); 26.55 inHg |
| Category 5 major arrocane | |
| 1-minute sustained (AAWS/NWS) | |
| Highest winds | 180 mph (285 km/h) |
| Lowest pressure | 899 mbar (hPa); 26.55 inHg (Second-lowest in the Gulf of Ardonia) |
| Overall effects | |
| Fatalities | 1,379 total |
| Missing | 563 |
| Damage | $158 billion (2019 USD) (Costliest tropical cyclone on record) |
| Areas affected |
|
Part of the 2019 Ardonia arrocane season | |
Arrocane Arlene was an exceptionally powerful and catastrophic tropical cyclone that became the strongest and most intense arrocane ever recorded at the time, before both records were surpassed by Arrocane Milton later in 2019. The first named storm, first arrocane, first major arrocane, and first Category 5 arrocane of the 2019 Ardonia arrocane season, Arlene attained maximum one-minute sustained winds of 180 mph (285 km/h) and a minimum central pressure of 899 mbar (26.55 inHg). At peak intensity, Arlene surpassed the records established by the 1865 Port Kazu arrocane, which had attained winds of 165 mph (265 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 911 mbar (26.90 inHg). Arlene's intensity records remained unbroken until July, when Milton attained winds of 200 mph (320 km/h) and a minimum central pressure of 865 mbar (25.55 inHg).
Arlene developed in May 2019 and subsequently underwent significant intensification as it moved toward Cydonia. At its peak, the Ardonia Meteorological Organization (AMO) assessed Arlene as a Category 5 arrocane on the Ardonia arrocane wind scale, while under the Felden Meteorological Legislation (FML), Arlene was classified as a very intense arrocane with maximum ten-minute sustained winds of 155 mph (250 km/h). After reaching peak intensity over the Gulf of Ardonia, Arlene affected several areas of Cydonia, including the Trinity Islands, Po'Hatu, Cydonia Mines, Meridian, and Port Kazu, as well as the Aridia Cliffs and Blade Island. The cyclone eventually transitioned into an extratropical cyclone on May 27 before dissipating on May 30.
The effects of Arlene were catastrophic, particularly across Cydonia. The arrocane was responsible for 1,379 fatalities, while an additional 563 people were reported missing. Damage totaled $158 billion (2019 USD), making Arlene the costliest tropical cyclone in Ardonia's recorded history. At the time, Arlene was also the deadliest arrocane on record, greatly surpassing the 138 fatalities caused by the 1865 Port Kazu arrocane. Its death toll remained the highest recorded for an arrocane until Arrocane Lee surpassed it during the 2020 Ardonia arrocane season. Arlene's $158 billion damage record, however, remains unsurpassed.
Although its wind and pressure records were subsequently surpassed and its death toll no longer ranks as the highest on record, Arlene remains one of the most significant arrocanes in Ardonia's recorded history. It currently ranks as the third-strongest arrocane by maximum sustained winds and the third-most intense by minimum central pressure, while remaining the costliest tropical cyclone on record. Arlene also generated 30.5675 units of accumulated cyclone energy (ACE), presently ranking fourth among individual arrocanes in the available record.
Meteorological history
Tropical storm (40–74 mph, 64–119 km/h)
Category 1 (75–94 mph, 120–159 km/h)
Category 2 (95–114 mph, 160–183 km/h)
Category 3 (115–129 mph, 184–208 km/h)
Category 4 (130–159 mph, 209–256 km/h)
Category 5 (≥160 mph, ≥257 km/h)
Unknown
Extratropical cyclone, remnant low, tropical disturbance, or monsoon depression The origins of Arrocane Arlene can be traced to an area of low pressure that was first monitored on May 17, 2019, while situated over the waters east of Cydonia. At 12:00 UTC, the disturbance was producing maximum sustained winds of 25 mph (40 km/h) and had a central pressure of 1,012 mbar (29.88 inHg). The system gradually became better organized as it moved generally westward, with its pressure falling to 1,005 mbar (29.68 inHg) by 06:00 UTC on May 18. Six hours later, winds increased to 30 mph (45 km/h) as the circulation continued to consolidate. At 18:00 UTC, the system was designated Potential Tropical Cyclone 01A, with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph (65 km/h) and a pressure of 1,001 mbar (29.56 inHg). Although already producing tropical storm-force winds, the system had not yet completed its transition into a tropical cyclone.
| Rank | Arrocane | Season | Pressure | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| hPa | inHg | |||
| 1 | Milton | 2019 | 865 | 25.54 |
| 2 | Gilbert | 2020 | 880 | 25.99 |
| 3 | Arlene | 2019 | 899 | 26.55 |
| 4 | Katrina | 2019 | 901 | 26.61 |
| 5 | "Port Kazu" | 1865 | 911 | 26.90 |
| 6 | Lee | 2020 | 918 | 27.11 |
| 7 | Florence | 2019 | 925 | 27.32 |
| 8 | "Trinity Islands" | 1865 | 929 | 27.43 |
| 9 | Michael | 2020 | 930 | 27.46 |
| 10 | Wilma | 2019 | 931 | 27.49 |
| Source: FML | ||||
At 00:00 UTC on May 19, the system became sufficiently organized to be classified as a tropical storm and received the name Arlene, becoming the first named storm of the 2019 Ardonia arrocane season. Arlene initially intensified steadily while approaching southern Ardonia. Its winds increased from 40 mph (65 km/h) at the time of formation to 60 mph (95 km/h) by 18:00 UTC, while its central pressure decreased from 1,000 to 989 mbar (29.53 to 29.21 inHg). At 00:00 UTC on May 20, Arlene strengthened further to 70 mph (110 km/h), before becoming the season's first arrocane at 06:00 UTC, when sustained winds reached 75 mph (120 km/h). Intensification accelerated thereafter; Arlene reached 90 mph (150 km/h) at 12:00 UTC and became a Category 2 arrocane six hours later with winds of 105 mph (165 km/h).
Arlene subsequently entered a period of rapid intensification while moving toward Cydonia. At 00:00 UTC on May 21, the cyclone became the season's first major arrocane after its sustained winds increased to 120 mph (195 km/h), equivalent to Category 3 intensity, while its central pressure fell to 968 mbar (28.59 inHg). During the following six hours, Arlene underwent an exceptional burst of strengthening: its winds increased by 35 mph (55 km/h), reaching 155 mph (250 km/h), while its central pressure fell by 43 mbar to 925 mbar (27.32 inHg). At 12:00 UTC, Arlene attained Category 5 intensity with maximum sustained winds of 160 mph (260 km/h) and a pressure of 921 mbar (27.20 inHg), becoming the first Category 5 arrocane of the season. Continued strengthening brought its winds to 175 mph (280 km/h) and its pressure to 908 mbar (26.81 inHg) by 18:00 UTC. Over the 24-hour period ending at 00:00 UTC on May 22, Arlene's sustained winds increased by 60 mph (95 km/h), while its central pressure fell by 69 mbar.
At 00:00 UTC on May 22, Arlene reached its peak intensity with maximum one-minute sustained winds of 180 mph (285 km/h) and a minimum central pressure of 899 mbar (26.55 inHg). At the time, this made Arlene both the strongest arrocane ever recorded by maximum sustained winds and the most intense arrocane ever recorded by minimum central pressure, surpassing the 165 mph (265 km/h) and 911 mbar (26.90 inHg) records established by the 1865 Port Kazu arrocane. Satellite imagery near the time of peak intensity depicted an extremely well-organized cyclone with a small, sharply defined eye surrounded by a dense central overcast. Arlene's maximum ten-minute sustained winds were estimated at 155 mph (250 km/h), classifying the cyclone as a very intense arrocane under the Felden Meteorological Legislation (FML).
Arlene began weakening shortly after reaching peak intensity as it approached Cydonia. By 06:00 UTC on May 22, sustained winds had decreased slightly to 175 mph (280 km/h), while its central pressure had risen to 903 mbar (26.67 inHg). Around this time, Arlene made its first landfall at Category 5 intensity, with winds of 175 mph (280 km/h) and a central pressure of 903 mbar (26.67 inHg). This made Arlene the strongest landfalling arrocane recorded in Ardonia at the time, surpassing the previous record of 145 mph (235 km/h) established by the 1865 Trinity Islands arrocane. Arlene's landfall record was later surpassed by Arrocane Gilbert in 2020, which made landfall with maximum sustained winds of 195 mph (315 km/h). Arlene continued to weaken following landfall, with its winds decreasing to 165 mph (265 km/h) at 12:00 UTC and 160 mph (260 km/h) by 18:00 UTC.
By 00:00 UTC on May 23, Arlene had weakened below Category 5 intensity, with maximum sustained winds of 155 mph (250 km/h) and a central pressure of 931 mbar (27.49 inHg). Around this time, the cyclone made its second landfall at Category 4 intensity, with winds of 155 mph (250 km/h) and a pressure of 931 mbar (27.49 inHg). Arlene weakened particularly rapidly thereafter; by 06:00 UTC, its sustained winds had fallen to 110 mph (175 km/h), while its pressure had risen to 974 mbar (28.76 inHg), reducing the cyclone to Category 2 intensity.
Despite the substantial weakening, Arlene remained a powerful tropical cyclone as it continued along the southern portion of Cydonia. The cyclone maintained winds near 105–110 mph (165–175 km/h) through early May 24 before beginning a period of renewed strengthening. Arlene regained major arrocane status at 12:00 UTC on May 24, when its winds increased to 115 mph (185 km/h) and its pressure fell to 977 mbar (28.85 inHg). The cyclone strengthened slightly further during the following six hours, reaching a secondary peak intensity of 120 mph (195 km/h) and 975 mbar (28.79 inHg) at 18:00 UTC. This re-intensification was short-lived, and by 00:00 UTC on May 25, Arlene had weakened slightly to 115 mph (185 km/h) with a central pressure of 976 mbar (28.82 inHg). Around this time, the cyclone made its third and final landfall at Category 3 intensity.
Thereafter, Arlene weakened rapidly. Its winds fell to 90 mph (150 km/h) by 06:00 UTC on May 25, reducing the cyclone to Category 1 intensity, and Arlene weakened below arrocane strength six hours later with winds of 70 mph (110 km/h). The weakening tropical storm continued away from Cydonia, with sustained winds decreasing to 60 mph (95 km/h) by 00:00 UTC on May 26 and 45 mph (75 km/h) by 12:00 UTC. By 18:00 UTC, Arlene was a minimal tropical storm with winds of 40 mph (65 km/h) and a central pressure of 1,001 mbar (29.56 inHg).
At 00:00 UTC on May 27, Arlene completed its transition into an extratropical cyclone while retaining winds of 40 mph (65 km/h). The remnant cyclone subsequently weakened while continuing away from Ardonia, with winds decreasing below gale force later that day. Arlene's extratropical remnants persisted for several more days as the circulation gradually became less defined; its central pressure rose from 1,002 mbar (29.59 inHg) at the time of transition to 1,015 mbar (29.97 inHg) by May 30. The circulation was last tracked at 00:00 UTC on May 30 with winds of 25 mph (40 km/h), after which the remnants of Arlene dissipated.
Preparations
| Rank | Arrocane | Season | Windspeed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 5 Milton | 2019 | 200 mph (325 km/h) |
| 2 | 5 Gilbert | 2020 | 195 mph (315 km/h) |
| 3 | 5 Arlene | 2019 | 180 mph (285 km/h) |
| 4 | 5 Katrina | 2019 | 175 mph (280 km/h) |
| 5 | 5 "Port Kazu" | 1865 | 165 mph (270 km/h) |
| 6 | 5 Lee | 2020 | 160 mph (260 km/h) |
| 7 | 4 Michael | 2020 | 155 mph (250 km/h) |
| 8 | 4 Florence | 2019 | 150 mph (240 km/h) |
| 9 | 4 "Trinity Islands" | 1865 | 145 mph (230 km/h) |
| 4 Wilma | 2020 | 145 mph (230 km/h) |
Cydonia
Preparations for Arrocane Arlene began across Cydonia on May 19, shortly after the system developed into a tropical storm. The National Weather Service (NWS) office in Meridian began issuing advisories for southern Cydonia and the surrounding islands as forecasts indicated that Arlene would approach the kingdom while strengthening. Initial preparations focused primarily on maritime interests and communities along the southern coast. As Arlene intensified on May 20, watches and warnings were expanded across southern Cydonia, while residents elsewhere in the kingdom were alerted to the possibility of heavy rainfall and flooding.
The geography and sparse population of Cydonia complicated preparations. Much of the kingdom consists of desert, with settlements separated by large expanses of sparsely inhabited terrain. Emergency officials consequently prioritized the evacuation of exposed islands, coastal settlements, mining facilities, and other communities expected to experience the strongest winds. Transportation was organized from isolated settlements toward larger population centers and designated shelters, while emergency supplies were distributed across southern Cydonia in anticipation that roads and communications could be disrupted for several days.
Preparations expanded considerably on May 21 as Arlene underwent rapid intensification. After the cyclone became a major arrocane at 00:00 UTC and rapidly strengthened thereafter, mandatory evacuation orders were issued for particularly vulnerable coastal and island communities. Maritime operations across southern Cydonia were progressively suspended, with ships directed to leave exposed ports or secure themselves in protected locations. Fishing vessels and smaller boats were hauled ashore where possible, while cargo and other materials stored near the waterfront were relocated or secured.
Arlene's unusually large circulation also prompted preparations well beyond the area expected to experience its most destructive winds. Forecasts indicated that heavy rainfall would affect most of Cydonia, including areas far north of the cyclone's projected track. Residents near normally dry channels, low-lying terrain, and other flood-prone locations were advised to relocate to higher ground. Emergency officials warned that rainfall runoff across the desert could produce flash flooding considerable distances from the center of Arlene. Supplies of drinking water, food, medicine, and other necessities were stockpiled in communities that could become isolated.
Following Arlene's attainment of Category 5 intensity at 12:00 UTC on May 21, preparations in southern Cydonia became increasingly urgent. The NWS warned that catastrophic wind damage was possible within the cyclone's inner core and that preparations in the expected path of the eyewall needed to be completed immediately. Government offices, schools, businesses, and nonessential services throughout threatened areas were closed, while emergency personnel and military units were staged in reinforced locations for deployment following the storm. By the time Arlene strengthened to 175 mph (280 km/h) later that day, organized travel through the most threatened portions of southern Cydonia was being curtailed.
Trinity Islands and Po'Hatu
Extensive preparations were undertaken across the Trinity Islands, which were expected to experience some of the strongest winds associated with Arlene. Residents of exposed coastal areas were ordered to evacuate, while those remaining on the islands were directed to substantial structures away from the immediate shoreline. Inter-island transportation was suspended as conditions deteriorated, and vessels were removed from exposed docks or secured in protected anchorages.
The islands' history of destructive arrocanes heightened concern among emergency officials. The 1865 Trinity Islands arrocane, which had made landfall with winds of 145 mph (235 km/h), remained the strongest landfalling arrocane on record in Ardonia before Arlene. As forecasts began indicating that Arlene could approach the islands and southern Cydonia at substantially greater intensity, officials emphasized that residents should not use previous storms as an indication of the conditions expected from Arlene.
Preparations were also conducted on Po'Hatu, an island containing a small village centered around an oasis. Residents secured homes and other structures, while boats were moved from exposed portions of the shoreline. Particular attention was given to the village's water supply, as flooding, debris, and saltwater intrusion threatened to contaminate the oasis following the passage of the cyclone. Drinking water was stored before conditions deteriorated, and residents in the most exposed locations were moved to stronger structures or evacuated from the island.
By late May 21, marine transportation across the southern islands had largely ceased. Residents who had not evacuated were instructed to remain sheltered as Arlene approached at Category 5 intensity.
Meridian
Preparations were especially extensive in Meridian, the capital of Cydonia. Situated on an island and largely surrounded by the ocean, the city was considered particularly vulnerable to destructive winds, coastal flooding, and disruption of transportation. Government offices began emergency operations as Arlene intensified, while nonessential services were suspended and emergency shelters were opened throughout the city.
Residents in exposed waterfront areas were ordered to evacuate, while people elsewhere in Meridian were encouraged to shelter in substantial structures away from the coast. Buildings were boarded or otherwise reinforced where possible, and loose objects were removed from streets, rooftops, and other exposed locations. Businesses closed as residents obtained food, drinking water, medical supplies, and other necessities. Authorities warned that transportation to and from the island could be unavailable for an extended period following the storm.
Medical facilities implemented emergency procedures before the arrival of the cyclone. Patients who could safely leave were discharged or relocated, while remaining patients were moved away from windows and vulnerable portions of buildings. Emergency medical personnel and search-and-rescue teams were placed on standby, and additional supplies were distributed to medical facilities in anticipation of large numbers of casualties.
The NWS office in Meridian increased the frequency and urgency of warnings as Arlene rapidly intensified on May 21. After the cyclone reached Category 5 intensity, residents within the projected path of the inner core were warned that extreme winds could render travel impossible and that evacuation needed to be completed before conditions deteriorated. Maritime and passenger transportation serving Meridian was progressively restricted and later suspended. Once sustained tropical-storm-force winds reached the surrounding waters, residents remaining in the city were instructed to shelter in place.
Because Arlene's broad cloud shield extended far beyond its core, flood preparations also occurred in portions of the capital not expected to experience the strongest winds. Drainage channels were cleared where possible, and residents in low-lying areas were warned that torrential rainfall could continue even after the most destructive winds had passed.
Port Kazu and Cydonia Mines
At Port Kazu, maritime and commercial operations were suspended ahead of Arlene. Ships capable of leaving the threatened region were directed away from the southern Cydonian coast, while vessels remaining in port were secured. Smaller boats were hauled ashore where possible, and cargo stored near the waterfront was moved into more secure locations. Access to exposed docks was progressively restricted before being closed as conditions deteriorated.
Port Kazu initially served as an evacuation and supply point for nearby communities. Residents were transported away from exposed coastal areas while food, drinking water, medical supplies, and emergency equipment were moved through the port. Evacuation operations ended before the arrival of tropical-storm-force winds, after which the waterfront was closed to the public.
Preparations at the Cydonia Mines focused on both destructive winds and flooding. Mining operations were suspended, nonessential personnel were evacuated, and workers were brought out of vulnerable underground areas. Equipment was shut down or secured, while fuel and other hazardous materials were relocated where possible. Entrances and shafts considered susceptible to flooding were closed or reinforced.
Officials expressed particular concern that Arlene's heavy rainfall could send large amounts of runoff into mine entrances and underground workings, potentially trapping workers or isolating portions of the complex. Emergency pumps and rescue equipment were positioned before the arrival of the storm, and access to the mines was restricted after operations ceased.
Elsewhere across Cydonia, including communities outside the primary wind-impact corridor, preparations centered predominantly on flooding. Residents were warned that Arlene's large circulation would spread heavy rainfall across much of the kingdom despite the cyclone's center remaining over southern Cydonia. Communities well removed from the coast therefore continued preparations even where damaging winds were not anticipated.
K'arthen
Preparations in K'arthen focused almost entirely on rainfall and flooding rather than Arlene's destructive wind field. The kingdom lies immediately north of Cydonia and is characterized by dry, barren, mountainous, and volcanic terrain. Forecasts indicated that the northern portion of Arlene's expansive rain shield would extend across the Cydonia–K'arthen region even though the cyclone's damaging winds would remain considerably farther south.
Flood alerts were issued for southern portions of K'arthen as Arlene approached Cydonia. Authorities warned that prolonged rainfall over steep terrain could produce rapid runoff, flooding in valleys and ravines, and rockfalls or debris flows along mountain routes. Travel through vulnerable passes and low-lying areas was discouraged, and residents in locations susceptible to runoff were advised to move to higher ground.
Preparations were also undertaken along transportation routes connecting K'arthen with Cydonia. Movement across exposed routes was restricted as rainfall increased, while supplies were positioned in communities that could become isolated by flooding or debris. The mountainous terrain heightened concern that roads could become impassable even in locations receiving little or no damaging wind.
K'arthen's population includes large numbers of Magnorites, alongside humans and Felinas. Emergency preparations therefore encompassed the kingdom's broader civilian population rather than only its human inhabitants. The underground construction of the K'arthen cities of Tartarus and Markar provided substantial protection from wind, although officials remained concerned about water entering subterranean structures and access routes during prolonged rainfall.
Conditions in K'arthen deteriorated as Arlene's broad circulation moved across southern Ardonia. However, the cyclone's destructive inner wind field remained confined well to the south, and preparations in the kingdom continued to focus on flooding and rainfall-related hazards rather than direct arrocane-force winds.
Aridia Cliffs and Blade Island
Preparations were undertaken along the Aridia Cliffs as Arlene's large circulation approached southern Ardonia. Although the region was outside the corridor expected to receive Arlene's most destructive winds, authorities restricted access to exposed coastal and cliffside areas because of rough seas, heavy rainfall, and the possibility of rockfalls. Residents and travelers were advised to avoid cliff edges, beaches, and low-lying coastal areas until conditions improved.
Heavy rainfall posed an additional concern where runoff could destabilize steep terrain. Travel through vulnerable routes was discouraged, while emergency supplies were positioned before weather conditions deteriorated. Maritime activity near the cliffs was also restricted as waves and swells generated by Arlene increased.
On Blade Island, preparations similarly centered on rough seas, rainfall, and peripheral winds from Arlene's expansive circulation. Vessels were secured or moved from exposed anchorages, and residents in vulnerable coastal areas were advised to move away from the shoreline. Emergency supplies were distributed before deteriorating marine conditions made transportation more difficult.
Warnings remained in effect across the region as Arlene crossed southern Cydonia and subsequently weakened. The cyclone's re-intensification on May 24 prolonged hazardous marine conditions, and authorities maintained restrictions until Arlene had moved away from southern Ardonia.
Impact
| Rank | Arrocane | Season | Damage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 5 Arlene | 2019 | $158 billion |
| 2 | 5 Gilbert | 2020 | $129 billion |
| 3 | TS Otto | 2020 | $117 billion |
| 4 | 5 Milton | 2019 | $75 billion |
| 5 | 4 Katrina | 2019 | $59 billion |
| 6 | 3 Florence | 2019 | $45 billion |
| 7 | 4 Rita | 2019 | $37.6 billion |
| 8 | 4 Wilma | 2019 | $29.5 billion |
| 9 | 3 Bob | 2020 | $21.3 billion |
| 10 | 3 Victor | 2019 | $19.9 billion |
Arrocane Arlene caused catastrophic damage across southern Cydonia and widespread flooding elsewhere in the kingdom. Damage totaled $158 billion (2019 USD), making Arlene the costliest tropical cyclone in Ardonia's recorded history. The cyclone was responsible for 1,379 deaths, with an additional 563 people reported missing. At the time, Arlene was also the deadliest arrocane on record, surpassing the 1865 Port Kazu arrocane.
The severity of Arlene's effects varied considerably across the affected region. The cyclone's destructive wind field was concentrated over southern Cydonia and the Trinity Islands, where portions of the storm's inner core produced extreme winds. Farther from the track, Arlene's unusually expansive circulation produced widespread rainfall across most of Cydonia and portions of K'arthen. Flooding therefore occurred considerably farther north than the corridor of significant wind damage.
Cydonia
Cydonia sustained nearly all of the catastrophic effects associated with Arlene. The cyclone crossed the southern portion of the kingdom while at major arrocane intensity on multiple occasions, including its first landfall at Category 5 intensity. Coastal and island communities in southern Cydonia experienced the combination of extreme winds, large waves, coastal flooding, and torrential rainfall, while communities farther inland were primarily affected by flooding.
Arlene's first landfall occurred at approximately 06:00 UTC on May 22 with maximum sustained winds of 175 mph (280 km/h) and a central pressure of 903 mbar (26.67 inHg). At the time, this made Arlene the strongest landfalling arrocane ever recorded in Ardonia. The cyclone remained at Category 5 intensity following landfall, weakening only gradually to 165 mph (265 km/h) by 12:00 UTC and 160 mph (260 km/h) by 18:00 UTC. Consequently, a substantial portion of southern Cydonia remained within Arlene's destructive wind field for several hours.
Arlene made a second landfall at approximately 00:00 UTC on May 23 with winds of 155 mph (250 km/h) and a pressure of 931 mbar (27.49 inHg), corresponding to Category 4 intensity. Although the cyclone weakened rapidly thereafter, damaging winds and heavy rainfall continued across southern portions of the kingdom. After re-intensifying on May 24, Arlene reached a secondary peak of 120 mph (195 km/h) and 975 mbar (28.79 inHg) before making its third and final landfall around 00:00 UTC on May 25 with winds of 115 mph (185 km/h) and a pressure of 976 mbar (28.82 inHg).
Outside the immediate wind-damage corridor, widespread rainfall affected much of Cydonia. The kingdom's predominantly desert environment contributed to rapid runoff in some areas, with normally dry channels carrying large quantities of water. Roads were inundated or washed out, temporarily isolating several smaller communities. Flooding also contaminated local water supplies and disrupted transportation after the cyclone's strongest winds had subsided.
Trinity Islands
The Trinity Islands were among the first Cydonian territories significantly affected by Arlene. The islands were exposed to the western and northern portions of the cyclone's circulation while Arlene was near its maximum intensity, producing destructive winds, high waves, and coastal flooding.
Buildings near exposed shorelines sustained roof and exterior damage, while trees and other vegetation were damaged by the combination of wind and saltwater. Docks, small vessels, and other maritime infrastructure were also damaged. Large waves washed debris onto portions of the shoreline and damaged structures situated close to the water.
Despite the severity of the cyclone, comparatively successful evacuations limited casualties on the islands. Six people were killed. Damage throughout the Trinity Islands totaled approximately $100 million.
Po'Hatu
Po'Hatu experienced substantially greater damage. The island's small village was subjected to destructive winds and coastal flooding as Arlene's inner circulation passed through southern Cydonia. Numerous structures were damaged or destroyed, and debris was scattered throughout portions of the settlement.
The island's oasis, which provides the settlement with broad access to water, was adversely affected by the cyclone. Floodwater, windblown debris, and saltwater contaminated portions of the local water supply, leaving residents dependent on stored water and outside assistance in the immediate aftermath. Vegetation surrounding the oasis was heavily damaged, while roads and paths through the village were obstructed by debris.
Coastal portions of Po'Hatu experienced severe wave action, damaging boats and waterfront structures. Communications with the island were disrupted during the height of the storm and remained unreliable afterward.
Seventeen people were killed on Po'Hatu. Damage totaled approximately $4.9 billion, making the island one of the more heavily damaged locations outside Meridian and Port Kazu.
Cydonia Mines
The Cydonia Mines sustained comparatively modest structural losses but experienced a disproportionately high death toll. Torrential rainfall generated substantial runoff around the mining complex, with water entering portions of the underground workings. Flooding and debris obstructed several access points and temporarily prevented rescuers from reaching portions of the complex.
Despite the suspension of mining operations before Arlene's arrival, workers and other personnel remained within or near the facility when conditions deteriorated. Flooding within underground areas developed rapidly, and several sections became isolated. Rescue operations were complicated by damaged access routes, standing water, debris, and interruptions to communications.
A total of 81 people were killed at the Cydonia Mines. Property and infrastructure losses were estimated at $200 million. The relatively low monetary loss compared with the death toll reflected the concentration of fatalities in flooded underground portions of the complex rather than widespread destruction of surface infrastructure.
Meridian
The most catastrophic effects occurred in Meridian, Cydonia's capital and largest city. Situated on an island largely surrounded by the ocean, Meridian was exceptionally vulnerable to Arlene's combination of extreme winds and coastal flooding. The city ultimately accounted for the overwhelming majority of both the cyclone's monetary losses and fatalities.
Arlene's core brought extreme winds across the city and surrounding island. Buildings throughout Meridian sustained extensive roof, window, and exterior damage, while less substantial structures were destroyed. The city's predominately sandstone construction provided varying levels of resistance to the winds; some substantial buildings remained standing while suffering severe interior and roof damage, whereas more vulnerable structures experienced partial or complete failure. Windborne debris caused additional damage to buildings that initially survived the strongest gusts.
Coastal sections of the island were severely affected by waves and flooding. Water penetrated waterfront districts and damaged buildings, roads, docks, and other infrastructure. Boats and debris were carried inland in some areas, while portions of the shoreline were heavily eroded. Flooding compounded wind damage by entering already compromised structures.
Electrical distribution and communications infrastructure sustained extensive damage. Large portions of Meridian lost power during the cyclone, and communications with some districts were severed. Roads became obstructed by debris, structural collapses, and floodwater, substantially delaying emergency response during and immediately after the passage of the eyewall.
The scale of destruction placed considerable strain on the city's medical system. Hospitals and emergency facilities treated large numbers of people injured by collapsing structures, flying debris, flooding, and other storm-related causes. Some medical facilities themselves sustained damage, further reducing available capacity.
In total, 1,086 people were killed in Meridian, representing more than three-quarters of all deaths attributed to Arlene. Damage in the capital was estimated at approximately $143 billion, accounting for more than 90% of the cyclone's total monetary losses. The magnitude of the disaster made Meridian the principal focus of rescue and recovery operations following the storm.
Port Kazu
Severe damage also occurred at Port Kazu, a major Cydonian port situated near Kaeru. The combination of destructive winds, large waves, and coastal flooding devastated portions of the waterfront.
Port facilities sustained extensive damage. Docks and waterfront structures were damaged or destroyed, while vessels that had remained in or near the harbor were damaged, grounded, or carried from their moorings. Warehouses and other buildings near the waterfront were affected by both wind and water, and debris accumulated across portions of the port.
Flooding extended beyond the immediate shoreline into surrounding low-lying areas. Transportation through the port was disrupted, and damage to roads and maritime infrastructure significantly reduced its ability to receive relief supplies in the immediate aftermath of the cyclone.
Port Kazu experienced the second-highest death toll associated with Arlene. A total of 189 people were killed, while damage was estimated at approximately $8.5 billion. The destruction temporarily removed one of southern Cydonia's established maritime transportation points from normal operation.
Elsewhere in Cydonia, including Kaeru and Phaethon, Arlene's broad circulation produced heavy rainfall and localized flooding. These areas were located outside the corridor of the cyclone's most destructive winds, and no separate fatalities or monetary losses were attributed to them in the final damage assessment.
K'arthen
Heavy rainfall extended northward into portions of K'arthen despite the cyclone's center and destructive wind field remaining well to the south. K'arthen's mountainous and volcanic terrain enhanced runoff, resulting in flooding along some valleys, ravines, and transportation routes.
Several roads and mountain passages were temporarily rendered impassable by flooding, debris, and localized rockfalls. Water also accumulated around low-lying approaches to settlements and underground structures. However, the kingdom avoided the extreme wind destruction experienced in southern Cydonia.
No deaths or separately assessed monetary losses in K'arthen were included in Arlene's final casualty and damage totals. The principal effects in the kingdom were therefore associated with rainfall, runoff, and temporary transportation disruption.
Aridia Cliffs and Blade Island
The Aridia Cliffs experienced peripheral effects from Arlene, including heavy rainfall, rough seas, and strong winds. Waves affected the base of exposed coastal cliffs, while rainfall generated runoff and localized erosion. Rockfalls occurred in some steep areas, and several routes through the region were temporarily obstructed by debris.
Damage at the Aridia Cliffs totaled approximately $300 million. No deaths were reported.
Blade Island was also affected by the broader circulation of Arlene. Rough seas and strong peripheral winds damaged coastal facilities and maritime infrastructure, while heavy rainfall caused localized flooding. Several vessels and exposed waterfront structures were damaged, although the island remained outside the corridor of Arlene's most destructive winds.
Damage on Blade Island was estimated at approximately $1 billion. No fatalities were reported.
Aftermath
In the immediate aftermath of Arrocane Arlene, large-scale search-and-rescue operations began across southern Cydonia, with the greatest concentration of personnel and resources directed toward Meridian. Widespread debris, flooding, damaged roads, and disruptions to communications initially hindered access to some of the most severely affected communities. Military personnel, emergency responders, and volunteers assisted with searches, debris removal, the distribution of supplies, and the evacuation of injured residents. With 563 people initially listed as missing, search operations continued for an extended period after the cyclone.
The destruction in Meridian presented the largest recovery challenge. Thousands of damaged or destroyed buildings left residents displaced, while widespread disruption of electricity, communications, transportation, and water services complicated relief efforts. Temporary shelters were established for displaced residents, and food, drinking water, medical supplies, and other necessities were transported into the capital as access was restored. Damage to medical facilities and the large number of casualties placed additional strain on the city's healthcare system. Debris removal and the restoration of essential services continued well after emergency search-and-rescue operations had ended.
Recovery operations were also conducted at Port Kazu, where damage to docks and other maritime infrastructure initially restricted the movement of relief supplies by sea. Temporary facilities were established while damaged sections of the port were repaired, and maritime traffic resumed gradually. On Po'Hatu, relief efforts included the provision of drinking water following contamination of the island's local water supply. Supplies were also transported to communities throughout southern Cydonia that had been isolated by flooding or damaged transportation routes.
At the Cydonia Mines, rescue and recovery operations continued after floodwater and debris obstructed portions of the complex. Crews pumped water from affected areas and cleared access routes before damaged sections of the mines could be inspected. Mining operations remained suspended during the initial recovery period.
The magnitude of the destruction prompted a prolonged reconstruction effort throughout southern Cydonia. Particular emphasis was placed on rebuilding Meridian, restoring transportation and maritime infrastructure, and improving the resilience of structures in areas vulnerable to future arrocanes. Flood-damaged roads and other infrastructure elsewhere in Cydonia were repaired as waters receded, while communities in the broader rainfall-affected region recovered considerably faster than areas struck by Arlene's inner core.
With losses of $158 billion (2019 USD), Arlene became the costliest tropical cyclone in Ardonia's recorded history. The scale of the disaster had substantial economic effects in Cydonia, particularly through the destruction in Meridian and interruption of maritime activity at Port Kazu. Arlene also became the deadliest arrocane on record at the time with 1,379 fatalities, a distinction it retained until Arrocane Lee caused 4,026 deaths in 2020.
Retirement
Due to the catastrophic loss of life and destruction caused by the cyclone, the name Arlene was retired from the Ardonia arrocane naming lists following the 2019 season and will never again be used for another arrocane. It was replaced by Audrey for the next use of the corresponding naming list. Arlene was one of eight names retired following the 2019 Ardonia arrocane season, alongside Camille, Florence, Katrina, Milton, Rita, Victor, and Wilma.
Records
During its period of rapid intensification, Arlene established records for both wind-speed increase and pressure fall over a 24-hour period. Between 06:00 UTC on May 20 and 06:00 UTC on May 21, Arlene's maximum sustained winds increased from 75 mph (120 km/h) to 155 mph (250 km/h), an increase of 80 mph (130 km/h) in 24 hours. This was the greatest 24-hour increase in maximum sustained winds recorded for an arrocane at the time. Later on May 21, Arlene established a corresponding pressure record: between 18:00 UTC on May 20 and 18:00 UTC on May 21, its central pressure fell from 979 mbar (28.91 inHg) to 908 mbar (26.81 inHg), a decrease of 71 mbar in 24 hours. This was the greatest 24-hour pressure fall recorded for an arrocane at the time.
Both rapid-intensification records were subsequently surpassed by Arrocane Milton in July 2019. Between 00:00 UTC on July 14 and 00:00 UTC on July 15, Milton's maximum sustained winds increased by 125 mph (200 km/h), from 75 mph (120 km/h) to 200 mph (320 km/h), while its central pressure fell by 121 mbar, from 986 mbar (29.12 inHg) to 865 mbar (25.55 inHg). Arlene's 80 mph (130 km/h) increase currently ranks fourth among 24-hour wind-speed increases, while its 71 mbar pressure fall ranks second among 24-hour pressure decreases.
At 00:00 UTC on May 22, Arlene reached its peak intensity with maximum one-minute sustained winds of 180 mph (285 km/h) and a minimum central pressure of 899 mbar (26.55 inHg). In doing so, Arlene surpassed both intensity records established by the 1865 Port Kazu arrocane, which had attained maximum sustained winds of 165 mph (265 km/h) and a minimum central pressure of 911 mbar (26.90 inHg). Arlene consequently became both the strongest arrocane by maximum sustained winds and the most intense by minimum central pressure recorded in Ardonia at the time. It was also the first known arrocane to attain a central pressure below 900 mbar.
Both of Arlene's peak-intensity records were surpassed by Milton on July 15, when Milton attained maximum sustained winds of 200 mph (320 km/h) and a minimum central pressure of 865 mbar (25.55 inHg). Arrocane Gilbert subsequently attained maximum sustained winds of 195 mph (315 km/h) and a minimum central pressure of 880 mbar (25.99 inHg) in 2020. Arlene therefore currently ranks as the third-strongest arrocane by maximum sustained winds and the third-most intense by minimum central pressure.
Arlene also established a record for landfall intensity. Its first landfall on May 22 occurred at Category 5 intensity, with maximum sustained winds of 175 mph (280 km/h) and a central pressure of 903 mbar (26.67 inHg). The landfall surpassed the previous wind-speed record of 145 mph (235 km/h), established by the 1865 Trinity Islands arrocane, by 30 mph (45 km/h). The record was subsequently surpassed in 2020 by Arrocane Gilbert, which made landfall with maximum sustained winds of 195 mph (315 km/h) and a central pressure of 880 mbar (25.99 inHg). Arlene's 175 mph (280 km/h) landfall currently ranks as the second-strongest arrocane landfall recorded in Ardonia.
Arlene also established major records for its effects. With damage totaling $158 billion (2019 USD), Arlene surpassed the 1865 Port Kazu arrocane, which caused approximately $10.213 billion in damage, to become the costliest tropical cyclone in Ardonia's recorded history. Unlike its intensity and rapid-intensification records, Arlene's damage record has not subsequently been surpassed, and it remains the costliest tropical cyclone on record.
The 1,379 fatalities attributed to Arlene also surpassed the 138 deaths caused by the 1865 Port Kazu arrocane, making Arlene the deadliest arrocane in Ardonia's recorded history at the time. Arlene retained the record through the remainder of 2019 before Arrocane Lee caused 4,026 fatalities in 2020. Arlene currently ranks as the second-deadliest arrocane on record.
Arlene generated 30.5675 units of accumulated cyclone energy (ACE) during its lifetime. This did not surpass the 44.28 units generated by the 1865 Port Kazu arrocane and therefore did not establish an individual ACE record. Arlene currently ranks fourth among individual arrocanes by total ACE in the available record.
See also
- 2019 Ardonia arrocane season
- Timeline of the 2019 Ardonia arrocane season
- Ardonia arrocane wind scale
- 1865 Port Kazu arrocane – Previous strongest and most intense arrocane on record before Arlene
- 1865 Trinity Islands arrocane – Held the record for the strongest arrocane landfall before Arlene
- Arrocane Milton – Surpassed Arlene as the strongest and most intense arrocane on record later in 2019
- Arrocane Lee – Surpassed Arlene as the deadliest arrocane on record in 2020