Miami, Florida – The Atlantic hurricane season is showing signs of activity as forecasters keep a close eye on two systems that have the potential to develop into tropical storms. Although the season had a slow start, experts predict that it could turn out to be one of the most active on record.
One of the systems, if it intensifies, could become this year’s first Atlantic tropical storm, named Alberto, and may make landfall in Mexico next week. This system is drawing energy from the unusually warm waters in the Gulf of Mexico, increasing the chances of further development.
Additionally, another system is being monitored after causing heavy rainfall and flooding in Florida in recent days. Although it currently has a low chance of becoming a tropical storm as it moves northeast offshore along the East Coast, weather models suggest that conditions may become more favorable for the system to intensify in the coming days.
The southern Gulf of Mexico near the Yucatán Peninsula is identified as the area with the highest potential for a tropical storm to form. Rain and thunderstorms near Central America are expected to develop into an area of low pressure in the Bay of Campeche by early next week.
Experts predict that both systems could potentially intensify into tropical depressions or storms, with the first system having a 50 percent chance of development over the next week. While high pressure over the United States may limit the northern progression of the storm, areas from the Veracruz region of the Mexico coast to South Texas should remain vigilant.
Despite the lack of named storms forming so far, the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the overall high ocean temperatures globally are raising concerns about the potential for an active hurricane season. The presence of such warm waters, combined with the absence of El Niño and the possible onset of La Niña, may create a favorable climate pattern for increased storm activity in the Atlantic.
Hurricane forecasters at Colorado State University have reaffirmed their forecast for the season, anticipating a higher than average number of named storms, hurricanes, and major hurricanes. With all these factors in play, it remains crucial for coastal communities and residents in hurricane-prone areas to stay informed and prepared for any potential developments.