Tropics Firing Up!

Wunderground Tropical Weather

After an inactive peak of hurricane season, the tropical Atlantic is firing up! 4 items of interest are capturing out attention at the current time. Sub-tropical Storm Jerry is spinning about 1430 miles east of Cape Hatteras. Although Jerry will likely be absorbed into the westerlies before it has a chance to become a hurricane, sub-tropical systems can create larger surf than tropical ones because of their larger wind field. 40 mph winds extend outward 110 miles from the center of Jerry, so there is a substantial fetch for swell production. This should keep the east coast in a consistent run of moderate fun central Atlantic ground swell until the next round of swell arrives.

In the Gulf of Mexico, a weak low pressure system moved across the Yucatan peninsula last night and has the potential for development as it moves slowly NW in the general direction of Texas. Another stronger tropical wave is approaching the windward islands, and is showing signs of organization. But the one to watch is a large well organized low pressure system that moved off Africa yesterday, and could become a tropical depression later tonight. It is forecast to move into the east coast swell window, where the upper level winds are more favorable for tropical development than this time last week. We will keep you posted for possible yellow light conditions by the middle of the upcoming week!