CHRIS

History

Severe Tropical Cyclone Chris developed from a tropical low within the monsoon trough on 15 February 1991, forming approximately 170 kilometres northwest of the Kimberley coastline in Western Australia. Steered by high-pressure systems to its south and east, the cyclone tracked steadily westward throughout its lifetime, moving progressively further into the open Indian Ocean and away from the Australian mainland.

Chris reached its peak intensity on 19 February 1991, attaining Category 2 strength on the Australian tropical cyclone scale, with a minimum central pressure of 976 hPa. After achieving peak intensity, the system encountered cooler sea surface temperatures and increasing atmospheric wind shear, causing rapid weakening. The cyclone fully dissipated over open water on 21 February 1991.

Because Chris remained entirely over the remote open ocean for its entire lifespan, it produced no coastal impacts. There were no reports of structural damage, casualties, or significant disruption to coastal or island communities. Precautionary advisories were issued for shipping in the region, but no maritime incidents were recorded. The storm is notable primarily for its complete lack of impact on land, in contrast to other more destructive cyclones that shared the name Chris in subsequent years.

Sources: Bureau of Meteorology report Wikipedia