Hurricane Beryl is heading towards Jamaica and the Cayman Islands, fueled by record warm waters which could lead to stronger and longer storms. This storm has broken several records, including being the earliest Category 5 storm in the Atlantic and the farthest east a hurricane has formed in the region. As the second named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, Beryl strengthened from a tropical depression to a major hurricane in just 42 hours. Chris Fogarty, head of the Canadian Hurricane Centre, noted that the warm waters currently present are coming much earlier than usual, resembling conditions typically seen in late August or early September. These warm waters are not only affecting tropical regions but are also being observed in polar areas like Canada, potentially providing extra fuel for storms this season.
Fogarty mentioned that the warming in the atmosphere at higher latitudes, including in polar regions, is reducing the temperature differences between polar regions and the tropics. This can lead to a sluggish jet stream and weather patterns, making it easier for hurricanes to form closer to Canada. While it is unlikely for a storm to develop right off the coast of Nova Scotia, there is a possibility of hurricanes forming at higher latitudes, closer to Canadian areas like Nova Scotia. Matt Rosencrans, lead seasonal hurricane forecaster at NOAA, explained that even if water temperatures are above normal, it would still be too cold for a tropical storm to develop north of the latitude of North Carolina and Bermuda. However, a subtropical storm could potentially develop with warmer water near the poles still serving as an energy source for storms.
NOAA’s prediction for the Atlantic hurricane season includes an above-average number of storms, with 17 to 25 named storms, 13 of which could become hurricanes and four to seven major hurricanes. On average, the season typically produces 14 named storms, seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes. With Beryl’s early record-breaking strength and rapid development into a Category 5 storm, both Rosencrans and Fogarty emphasized the importance of preparedness. They advised taking precautions such as planning for potential flooding, ensuring devices are fully charged in case of power outages, and having three days’ worth of supplies, including non-perishable food items. Their messaging aims to encourage people to prepare well in advance of any potential storms, rather than waiting for them to be in the news or on the map.
In anticipation of the Atlantic hurricane season, the warm waters present in the region are causing concern for meteorologists and hurricane researchers. The potential for hurricanes to form closer to Canada due to the reduced temperature differences between polar regions and the tropics is a growing threat. Both experts stress the need for proactive preparedness measures, including planning for power outages, potential flooding, and ensuring a sufficient supply of essentials for several days. With NOAA’s prediction of an above-average hurricane season, it is crucial for individuals and communities to plan and prepare for potential storms in advance. The impact of warming waters near the poles is being closely monitored, as it could provide added fuel for storms and lead to more intense and frequent hurricanes in the future. As Hurricane Beryl approaches, the importance of early preparedness and taking necessary precautions to stay safe and secure during hurricane season cannot be understated.
