The severe storm of 5th August 1959 in northern Bass Strait

The formation of the severe storm of 5th August 1959 in northern Bass Strait is discussed briefly. Although characteristically a secondary depression, it does not fit into an earlier classification. Correspondence between its appearance and the super-imposition of positive vorticity advection over a low level front is claimed. While it is difficult to forecast the former, analysis of the westerlies from the oceanic data may resolve the whereabouts of a front. If one is predicted to be in a favourable position for further development, the first requirement - an alert - is satisfied.