Unprecedented ocean temperatures signal severe hurricane season, warn AccuWeather experts
Weather phenomenon experts at AccuWeather suggest that abnormally high ocean temperatures at this time of year are a cause for grave concern. They put this forward in discussions about the forthcoming hurricane season, warning that it could be extraordinarily active.
26 February 2024 22:32
"Whilst the Atlantic hurricane season doesn't officially commence until June 1, there are growing fears about this year's cycle," warns AccuWeather's chief meteorologist Jonathan Porter.
Water temperatures expected in July
One of the main factors influencing hurricane activity is the temperature of the ocean surface. For a tropical formation, the water temperature must reach at least 26 degrees C. In contrast, the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico are already at temperatures between 27-28 degrees C. These are temperatures you'd expect closer to the middle of July.
In recent years, the first hurricanes have often formed before the season's official start. Experts believe this trend could continue this year, largely driven by the unexpected warmth of Atlantic waters and the transition from El Nino to La Nina weather anomalies.
Unusual weather
La Nina is a weather anomaly resulting in the Pacific Ocean's surface temperature near the equator falling below average. This is due to the increased activity of trade winds, which lift the cooler deep water to the ocean's surface. The complex interplay between the ocean and atmosphere alters the location of the so-called jet stream. This can affect global weather patterns.
If this situation stays until spring, it could signal an extraordinarily active hurricane season with a rise in the number of hurricanes and their overall power.
According to atmospheric phenomenon analysts, the areas most susceptible to early hurricane hits will be the coastlines around the Persian Gulf and the Atlantic coast in Texas.
AccuWeather will release a comprehensive forecast for the Atlantic hurricane season in March 2024.
Source: AccuWeather
