The Gulf of Mexico is currently enjoying a spell of relative calm, with no active tropical storms churning in its waters, according to the latest updates from the National Hurricane Center (NHC). However, the broader Atlantic basin remains active, with two named systems, Hurricane Humberto and Tropical Storm Imelda, dictating dangerous coastal conditions for much of the U.S. East Coast.
While the Gulf of Mexico is clear, the powerful Hurricane Humberto continues its track across the central Atlantic, far from the coast. Forecasts show it is expected to pass west and then north of Bermuda over the next day or so. Though it remains out at sea, its massive size is generating significant swells that will affect coastal areas far beyond its center.
Closer to the U.S. is Tropical Storm Imelda, which has strengthened near the central Bahamas. The good news for the Gulf of Mexico region is that Imelda’s track has shifted eastward, steering the storm away from a direct U.S. hit. It is expected to become a hurricane as it moves away from the Bahamas and quickly heads toward the east-northeast.
Despite steering clear of the Gulf of Mexico, the ripple effects of both Imelda and Humberto are causing headaches for beachgoers and marine operators. Dangerous surf, high waves, and life-threatening rip currents are anticipated along much of the U.S. East Coast over the next several days. Officials are urging caution and recommending that people avoid ocean activities until conditions improve.
Forecasters are continually monitoring the development of a few tropical waves and disturbed weather areas, including a low chance for a system to potentially develop in the southwestern Gulf of Mexico later this week. As the peak of the hurricane season often brings increased activity, residents and businesses along the entire Gulf Coast should remain vigilant and prepared for possible shifts in the forecast.
