The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has announced the formation of Tropical Depression Six in the eastern subtropical Atlantic. This development follows an unusually calm Atlantic hurricane season, which has yet to produce a hurricane, a phenomenon attributed to El Niño.
According to AccuWeather meteorologist Alexander Duffus, Tropical Depression Six is expected to reach tropical storm strength briefly before weakening due to wind shear and dry air. The depression originated roughly 525 miles southwest of the Azores and is slowly shifting north at approximately two miles per hour.
The NHC advisory predicts slight strengthening in the next 24 hours but anticipates gradual weakening afterward. Maximum sustained winds currently hover around 35 miles per hour, with higher gusts possible. No coastal watches or warnings have been issued, and there are no land hazards reported.
Prior to the formation of Tropical Depression Six, the Atlantic had generated five named storms: Arthur, Bertha, Cristobal, Dolly, and Edouard. Should the depression advance to tropical storm status, it will be named Fay.
In contrast, the Eastern Pacific has seen over a dozen named systems this season.
Understanding Tropical Depressions
As defined by the NHC, a tropical depression is a cyclone with sustained winds of 38 mph or less. When winds reach 39 to 73 mph, the system becomes a tropical storm and is given a name. Winds of 74 mph or more upgrade the system to hurricane status.
The Role of El Niño in Hurricane Seasons
El Niño, part of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), is the warm phase affecting global weather patterns. Its counterpart, La Niña, represents the cooler phase. With El Niño conditions present, forecasts have suggested a quieter year for Atlantic hurricanes while predicting increased activity in the Pacific.
Matthew Rosencrans from NOAA explains El Niño conditions typically correspond with reduced storms and hurricanes in the Western Atlantic Basin, but increased activity in the eastern and central Pacific regions.
For further inquiries, contact Newsweek editor Edward Pearcey.
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