Entering the peak of hurricane season
The last few weeks of July have been quiet in the tropics, which is usual.
We did have a couple of systems that brought some decent rain to Houston, none of them developed due to land interaction and dry air.
This is typical as the Saharan dust takes over along with wind shear, both of which are hostile to tropical systems.
However, as we go into August, conditions start to become more favorable for development.
What we are watching
Tropical Storm Dexter recently formed off the East Coast and is expected to make its way into the open Atlantic.
Other than rough surf and a rip current risk, this storm isn’t expected to impact the mainland United States. There are also a couple of other areas to watch, including a broad area of low-pressure siting off the southeast coast that may see gradual development over the next week.
The main development region is also showing signs of life. A tropical wave is expected to emerge off the coast of Africa and has a medium chance of developing over the next week.
Be prepared
While it’s too early to know where these systems are headed, Houstonians should always be prepared and remain on alert.
Though we are starting to enter the peak of hurricane season, we have a long way to go. The next names on the list would be Erin and Fernand.