AccuWeather meteorologists are closely observing a region in the Southwestern Caribbean, where conditions appear ripe for the possible development of a tropical storm or hurricane. With just four weeks left in the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30, the agency recognizes the potential impact this weather system could have, particularly on Central America and Cuba. Notably, there is also a possibility that any storm that forms could alter its path towards Florida, according to senior meteorologist Scott Homan.
The current hurricane season has already recorded 13 named storms, and recent history underscores the importance of vigilance. Just prior, Hurricane Melissa devastated parts of the Caribbean, making landfall in Jamaica as a Category 5 storm and continuing to affect Cuba and the Bahamas.
Over the weekend, AccuWeather updated its forecast, highlighting persistent warm ocean waters and low wind shear in the area south of Cuba and northwest of Colombia. While the National Hurricane Center (NHC) is not actively tracking any systems at this time, AccuWeather’s Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva emphasized that atmospheric conditions remain conducive to potential development through mid-November.
If a storm does materialize, it is anticipated that it would primarily proceed west toward Central America or Mexico. Both Florida and Cuba, as well as parts of the Bahamas and Mexico, currently bear a low risk of impacts from tropical storm winds and rainfall. Though historical data indicates that November storms are less common, recent years have shown an increase in the frequency of late-season storms, attributed largely to warmer sea surface temperatures.
While the NHC notes that no tropical cyclone activity is expected in the next seven days, it remains crucial for residents in hurricane-prone regions to stay informed and prepared, as the season continues and conditions can change rapidly.