Tropical Storm Jerry Forms in the North Atlantic Ocean
Tropical Storm Jerry formed in the North Atlantic Ocean on Tuesday morning, according to the National Hurricane Center. This marks the 10th named storm to form in the Atlantic in 2025, a year that was predicted to be an above-average season by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). In late May, NOAA predicted that this season would see 13 to 19 named storms, with up to nine of them potentially becoming hurricanes.
Forecast Wind Speeds and Direction
The National Hurricane Center has started providing rip current forecasts, which is crucial as rip currents are the third-highest cause of death related to hurricanes, after inland flooding from excessive rain and storm surges. According to the Weather Service, the risk of rip currents is a significant concern, even from distant storms. The forecast wind speeds and direction will be closely monitored as the storm progresses.
Understanding the Storm’s Structure
Satellite imagery plays a vital role in determining the strength, size, and cohesion of a storm. The stronger a storm becomes, the more likely an eye will form in the center. When the eye looks symmetrical, it often means the storm is not encountering anything to weaken it. The Atlantic hurricane season, which started on June 1 and runs through November 30, has seen its fair share of powerful storms in recent years.
Comparing This Season to Previous Years
Last year, there were 18 named storms, 11 of which became hurricanes. Five of those hurricanes became what the Hurricane Center calls “major,” or Category 3, 4, or 5 on the Saffir–Simpson scale. Hurricane Beryl was one of two Category 5 hurricanes last year and set records for the earliest point in a season that a storm had grown so big. In contrast, this year was one of the slowest starts to a season in 20 years.
Climate Change and Its Impact on Hurricanes
Climate experts have warned that intense storms like these are more likely to occur, with more rapid intensification likely in a warming world. The ocean heat content, which is the measure of thermal energy stored in the ocean that can fuel storms, has been slightly below average in June. However, above-average ocean temperatures were a contributing factor to the quick intensity of Hurricane Beryl last year.
The Economic and Human Cost of Hurricanes
Last year was also one of the most costly for hurricanes in the United States, with Hurricanes Helene and Milton combining to cause about $113 billion in damages and more than 250 deaths. The Trump administration’s decision to no longer maintain a database of so-called billion-dollar disasters has raised concerns among experts. Additionally, the administration’s slashing of the number of employees at agencies responsible for planning for and responding to natural disasters, including NOAA, the Weather Service, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, has sparked worries about the country’s preparedness for such events.
Preparing for the Worst
As the hurricane season progresses, it is essential for individuals to be aware of the risks associated with these storms. Rip currents, storm surges, and inland flooding can all have devastating consequences. The National Hurricane Center’s forecasts and warnings are crucial in helping people prepare for and respond to these events. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, individuals can reduce their risk of injury or harm.
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