000 WTPZ42 KNHC 251434 TCDEP2 TROPICAL STORM OTTO DISCUSSION NUMBER 19 NWS NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER MIAMI FL EP222016 900 AM CST FRI NOV 25 2016 Microwave and conventional satellite imagery shows that Otto's cloud pattern is a little better organized with a mid-level eye and very deep convection surrounding the center. Estimates from TAFB and SAB are 3.5 on the Dvorak scale, and on this basis, the initial intensity is set at 55 kt. The intensity forecast continues to be uncertain. While global models show a gradual decay of the cyclone, other intensity guidance show a steady state or even slight intensification. The shear is a little bit strong for significant intensification primarily during the next 48 to 72 hours. After that time, the shear is expected to decrease, but the environment is forecast to dry out. The NHC forecast follows in general the intensity consensus during the first few days, and then calls for a weakening trend by the end of the forecast period following the solution of the global models and the previous NHC forecast. Otto is moving toward the west or 265 degrees at 14 kt within the easterly flow associated with a strong mid-level high over Mexico. This steering pattern is forecast to persist for the next 2 to 3 days, so a general west or even west-southwest track is anticipated. By the end of the forecast period, Otto should be located on the southwestern edge of the high and should then begin to turn to the northwest and north. In contrast with the intensity guidance, the track models are in good agreement, increasing the confidence in the track forecast. The NHC forecast follows very closely the multimodel consensus and is basically in the middle of the tight guidance envelope. FORECAST POSITIONS AND MAX WINDS INIT 25/1500Z 10.3N 88.2W 55 KT 65 MPH 12H 26/0000Z 10.0N 90.1W 55 KT 65 MPH 24H 26/1200Z 9.5N 93.0W 55 KT 65 MPH 36H 27/0000Z 9.3N 96.2W 55 KT 65 MPH 48H 27/1200Z 9.2N 99.5W 50 KT 60 MPH 72H 28/1200Z 9.7N 105.0W 45 KT 50 MPH 96H 29/1200Z 11.0N 107.5W 40 KT 45 MPH 120H 30/1200Z 13.0N 108.0W 25 KT 30 MPH...POST-TROP/REMNT LOW $$ Forecaster Avila