The tropics are highly active as the 2024 hurricane season continues, with several systems being monitored and potential new developments on the horizon. Tropical Storm Helene, which recently made landfall, has left a trail of destruction and loss of life in the Southeast, resulting in over 60 deaths and millions still without power.
Helene, now post-tropical, is slowly dissipating but has caused significant damage, including widespread power outages and flooding. The storm's rapid movement and extensive windfields led to tropical storm-force winds penetrating far inland, affecting large areas of the Southeast.
Current Named Storms
Currently, there are three named storms in the Atlantic Basin. Helene is diminishing, while Isaac and Joyce are still active in the central Atlantic. Additionally, Tropical Depression Gordon is forecast to regain tropical storm strength by Wednesday, although it poses no threat to land as it remains over the open Atlantic.
Potential Developments in the Caribbean and Gulf
An area in the northwestern Caribbean is being closely monitored for potential tropical development. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) indicates a high probability of a tropical depression forming in this region over the next seven days, with favorable environmental conditions such as low wind shear and warm waters.
Another area of interest is in the Gulf of Mexico, where a tropical disturbance has a medium to high chance of development before the end of the month. This system could potentially become Tropical Storm Leslie if it strengthens. The warm ocean temperatures, particularly between the Yucatan Peninsula and Western Cuba, are conducive to tropical development.
The Climate Prediction Center has highlighted the western Caribbean and southeast Gulf of Mexico as areas with potential for tropical development between September 25 and October 1. Despite the recent passage of Helene, the ocean temperatures in these areas remain warm enough to support another tropical system.
Ongoing Monitoring
Meteorologists are also monitoring a tropical wave near the west coast of Africa, which could move westward and develop into a tropical depression by the middle to latter part of the week. Additionally, an area of low pressure in the central subtropical Atlantic has a low chance of short-lived tropical depression formation.
As the 2024 hurricane season enters its final two months, it is crucial for residents in the affected regions to remain vigilant and prepared for any potential storms. The official end of the hurricane season is on November 30, but the tropics can remain active until then.
