Florence certainly is determined! As of Monday, the National Hurricane Center predicted this system to be a weakening tropical storm by this morning. Despite the odds of lower sea surface temperatures and moderate shear- Florence has blossomed into a full on Category 3 hurricane instead. Forecasts are calling for further intensification by the weekend and the most recent model runs are indicating a westerly storm path that may bring Florence closer to the U.S. East Coast by the middle of next week. Given the strength and proximity of Florence to the East Coast, we are watching this system intently.
Meanwhile in the Gulf, Tropical Storm Gordon came ashore last night west of the Alabama-Mississippi and is drenching the region with heavy rains. Although the system has been downgraded to a tropical depression, effects from Gordon will be felt throughout the southern states and as far as Iowa, Illinois and Minnesota. Flash flooding and tornadoes are possible through the weekend as well as Gordon works its way north.
But, wait- there’s two more systems worth monitoring! 92L is located a few hundred miles south-southwest of the Cabo Verde Islands and the NHC has given the system 2-day and 5-day odds of development of 70% and 90%, respectively. In addition, we have hurricane Olivia located in the Eastern Pacific.
Oh yes, and there is another wave forecast to come off the coast of Africa this weekend that has potential for development…
Hurricane Season is in full swing- STAY TUNED!