Statistical modelling of tropical cyclone tracks: a semi-parametric model for the mean trajectory
Abstract
Description
We present a statistical model for the unconditional mean tracks of hurricanes. Our model is a semi-parametric scheme that averages together observed hurricane displacements. It has a single parameter that defines the averaging length scale, and we derive the optimum value for this parameter using a jackknife. The main purpose of this model is as a starting point for developing a statistical model of hurricanes for use in the estimation of the wind, rainfall and flooding risks. The model also acts as an optimal filtering tool for estimating mean hurricane tracks.