Summary
The development of Sharon was rapid during 25 December. At 0000 UTC 25 December there was a 1005 hPa low centred near 13.1°S 82.5°E in a poorly-defined monsoon trough. By 1800 UTC 25 December cyclone status had been reached with Sharon then having an estimated central pressure of 995 hPa.
Further deepening took place as Sharon moved southeast and peaked with an estimated central pressure of 984 hPa at 0300 UTC 26 December. The path was controlled initially by an upper-level high centred near 12°S, 90°E. A slow decay began immediately after peak intensity and Sharon lost cyclone status by 1200 UTC 28 December. This was due to strengthening northwest winds over the system ahead of a marked upper trough. The residual low persisted up to 0000 UTC 31 December. No significant reports were received from shipping in the area.
Sharon occurred west of 90°E when the Australian region extended to 80°E.
