The first hurricane of the Atlantic season could develop this weekend

The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season is relatively young, yet the potential for its first hurricane looms this weekend.

Tropical Storm Beryl has recently formed and currently sits in the Atlantic, approximately 1200 miles east-southeast of Barbados.

Forecasters anticipate Beryl to intensify into a hurricane by Sunday as it tracks northwestward toward the Caribbean.

Typically, this area doesn’t see storm development until later in August or September. However, unusually warm ocean temperatures have created favorable conditions for earlier formation this year. Temperatures in the tropical Atlantic are notably higher than usual, resembling those typically seen in late August—a critical factor for tropical storm development.

Besides warm water, NOAA attributes the likelihood of an active Atlantic hurricane season to the transition from El Niño to La Niña. La Niña conditions reduce upper-level wind shear over the tropical Atlantic, making it easier for storms to form and strengthen.

Earlier this month, Tropical Storm Alberto brought heavy rainfall to South Texas upon making landfall along Mexico’s eastern coast. It remains uncertain whether the next storm will affect the Gulf of Mexico.

Stay informed as this tropical season unfolds, as it is expected to be active.