As July nears a close the tropics are still quiet.  We have yet to have a named storm this hurricane season.  However, this isn’t that unusual.  Here is a graphic showing the typical peak of hurricane season.

Activity typically picks up in the tropics during the month of August with a peak in mid-September.  By September ocean waters in the tropical Atlantic and Caribbean are at their warmest. 

This year could be interesting though.  With the development of El Nino, it may be difficult for tropical systems to form and maintain themselves.  During an El Nino, upper-level winds in the tropical Atlantic tend to be stronger which can “blow the tops of thunderstorms,” hence reducing chances for further development.

We’ll keep an eye on the tropics, but for now, all is quiet.

Meteorologist Cheryl Nelson