The National Hurricane Center is tracking four tropical waves with potential development, particularly a system in the western Caribbean that could become a tropical storm during the Halloween weekend. The 2024 hurricane season has been notably active, producing 15 named storms, including 10 hurricanes. The next storms are expected to be named Patty and Rafael.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is currently monitoring four tropical waves in the Atlantic, one of which is displaying promising potential for development over the Halloween weekend. Following a brief respite from tropical activity after the impacts of Hurricane Helene, Hurricane Milton, and Hurricane Oscar, meteorologists are alerting the public to the possibility of an emerging storm system. It is estimated that between October 31 and November 4, there could be a 40% chance that a tropical depression or storm may form in the western Caribbean. Currently, the chance of development within the next 48 hours stands at zero; however, forecasts indicate a likelihood of gradual development thereafter, as the system drifts northward or northeastward into the Caribbean Sea. The four tropical waves being monitored by the NHC include: 1. Southwestern Caribbean: A wave near 84W, south of 18N has reached Nicaragua. 2. Eastern Atlantic: Positioned along 35W, south of 15N, this wave is moving westward at a speed of 11 to 17 mph. 3. East of Leeward Islands: This wave at 52W, south of 17N, is also moving westward. 4. Eastern Caribbean Sea: A wave extending south into western Venezuela is traversing the eastern Caribbean along 68W. The forthcoming named storms for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season are anticipated to be ‘Patty’ and ‘Rafael’. So far, the season has been notably active, with 15 named storms recorded, including 10 that developed into hurricanes, four of which reached major hurricane status (Category 3 or above). With a forecast suggesting between 17 to 24 named storms in total for the season, it is evident that this hurricane season is one of the most severe in recent years.
The article focuses on the ongoing developments within the tropics, particularly as the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season approaches its conclusion. It outlines the recent lull in tropical activity following the impacts of several hurricanes and highlights current weather patterns observed by the National Hurricane Center. By tracking multiple tropical waves, the NHC aims to inform the public of the potential for increased storm activity, especially over the Halloween weekend, a period often associated with significant weather developments.
In summary, the National Hurricane Center is actively monitoring four tropical waves with a particular emphasis on a system that may develop into Tropical Storm Patty over the Halloween weekend. This follows an exceptionally active 2024 hurricane season, underscoring the need for vigilance as forecasts predict further storm activity. Awareness and preparedness remain crucial as the hurricane season continues until November 30.
Original Source: www.statesman.com