Tropical Storm Kirk Develops in Atlantic: Potential Major Hurricane on the Horizon
Tropical Storm Kirk has formed in the eastern tropical Atlantic and is expected to strengthen into a hurricane by Tuesday, potentially reaching Category 4 by Thursday. Other systems are being monitored, including a trough in the Caribbean that may develop as it moves towards the Gulf of Mexico. Tropical Storms Isaac and Joyce are weakening and unlikely to impact land.
Tropical Storm Kirk has developed in the eastern tropical Atlantic Ocean as reported by the National Hurricane Center (NHC) in Miami on Monday morning. This storm marks the 11th named storm of the 2024 hurricane season. At approximately 4 p.m. on Monday, Kirk was situated about 800 miles west of Cabo Verde, producing sustained winds of 60 mph while advancing westward at a speed of 12 mph. The forecasters at the NHC anticipate significant strengthening of Kirk as it shifts toward the west-northwest over warm waters and a moist environment characterized by low wind shear. Eric Blake, a forecaster with the NHC, noted in his afternoon update, “Rapid intensification remains a notable possibility if this system can close off its inner core.” The most recent forecast indicates Kirk could achieve hurricane status by Tuesday afternoon and may escalate to a major hurricane by Thursday at 2 p.m., potentially reaching Category 4 intensity with sustained winds of at least 130 mph. Currently, there is no threat posed to Louisiana, and no watches or warnings have been issued for any geographical areas globally. Additionally, a trough of low pressure situated over the southwestern Caribbean Sea is generating disorganized showers and thunderstorms. NHC experts believe this system might evolve into a tropical depression or storm as it progresses toward the southern Gulf of Mexico. Although it is premature to determine its exact path, the U.S. Gulf Coast should remain vigilant regarding its development. Furthermore, a tropical wave located a few hundred miles south of Cabo Verde possesses a “very likely” chance of forming into a tropical depression or storm in the coming days, with a 90% probability of development within the week, as per NHC forecasts. Meanwhile, both Tropical Storms Isaac and Joyce have continued to diminish as they traverse open waters, with neither expected to reach land before dissipating.
The article provides an update on the status of several tropical systems in the Atlantic Ocean during the 2024 hurricane season, focusing primarily on Tropical Storm Kirk, which has formed and is projected to strengthen significantly. It also addresses other systems, including a trough over the Caribbean that may develop into a tropical depression, and outlines the status of residual storms Isaac and Joyce, which are weakening over open seas. The information adds context to the current state of tropical activity in the Atlantic and the potential impacts on coastal regions.
In conclusion, Tropical Storm Kirk is intensifying in the eastern tropical Atlantic and is expected to reach hurricane status imminently, with forecasts suggesting a potential for major hurricane strength. Additionally, monitoring is advised for other systems in the Caribbean and around Cabo Verde as they may develop further. The current situation poses no immediate threat to land, with no warnings or watches actively issued at this time.
Original Source: www.nola.com
