The Sun-Sentinel reported this week that unusually strong bursts of Saharan dust are being blown off of Africa this year. This is similar to the pattern that caused lower hurricane activity than expected in last year’s hurricane season. In addition, cooler than normal temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean are also working to prevent the development of tropical storms, which normally need ocean temperatures of at least 82F to begin development. Another factor which may inhibit hurricane development this year is the presence of strong wind shear across the Caribbean, which prevents storms from developing a strong vertical circulation which strengthens the storms in their life cycles. You can find the story by clicking here.
Saharan dust, cool Atlantic may keep hurricane numbers low this season
