Tropical Storm Erin: Atlantic Hurricane Threat
Tropical Storm Erin Forms in Atlantic, Could Become First Hurricane of the Season
Table of Contents
Tropical Storm Erin has formed in the eastern Atlantic Ocean, marking a critically important development as the Atlantic hurricane season unfolds. Forecasters are closely monitoring the storm, with the potential for it to strengthen into the first hurricane of the year.
Where is tropical Storm Erin and What’s it’s Forecast?
As of Monday, Tropical Storm Erin was located just west of the Cabo Verde islands, off the western coast of Africa. The U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami reports the storm is currently moving westward. While it’s too early to determine if Erin will directly impact the United States,its formation is a key indicator of the active hurricane season predicted for the Atlantic basin.
an above-Normal Hurricane Season Predicted
This year, experts are anticipating an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season. The National weather Service forecasts between 13 and 18 named storms, with 5 to 9 potentially developing into hurricanes. This heightened activity underscores the importance of preparedness for coastal communities and anyone potentially in the path of these powerful storms.
Understanding Tropical Storms and Hurricanes
You might be wondering what exactly differentiates a tropical storm from a hurricane. Let’s break it down:
Tropical Storm: A tropical cyclone is classified as a tropical storm when its maximum sustained wind speeds reach at least 39 mph.
Hurricane: Hurricanes are significantly more powerful, boasting sustained winds of at least 74 mph.
Hurricanes are further categorized using the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, ranging from Category 1 to category 5:
category 1: 74-95 mph winds
Category 2: 96-110 mph winds
Category 3: 111-129 mph winds – considered a major hurricane
Category 4: 130-156 mph winds
Category 5: 157 mph winds or higher - the most severe category
A storm is officially designated a major hurricane* when it reaches Category 3 strength or higher, signifying a potentially catastrophic event.
stay Informed
This is a developing story. We’ll continue to update this article as more information becomes available. Stay tuned to CBS News for the latest updates on Tropical Storm Erin and the ongoing Atlantic hurricane season.
Alex Sundby is a senior editor at CBSNews.com. Along with editing content, Alex also covers breaking news, writing about crime and severe weather and also everything from multistate lottery jackpots to the July Fourth hot dog eating contest.