MACON, Ga. — Well, it’s no doubt that the tropics are a big topic of conversation at the moment, not only because of Francine but we also just passed the peak of hurricane season.
But have you ever wondered why hurricanes have seasons, and what attributes to their increase in activity?
Well, there are a few factors. But, lets start with when hurricane season takes place.
Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from June 1st to November 30th. The season was determined by the National Hurricane Center based on the amount of tropical activity that takes place during these months.
According to the NHC, this six-month period accounts for 97% of all Atlantic tropical storms and hurricanes.
Now, September is the peak of hurricane season. Activity tends to drastically increase during this month. Statistically, September typically accounts for 45% of the season’s activity.
But, why is this the case?
There are several factors that go into hurricane or tropical storm development, but the biggest is sea surface temperatures. June to November is when the sea surface temperatures are the best for tropical systems.
During September, the Atlantic sea surface temperatures are at the warmest, typically around or above 80 degrees.
This is also the time when upper-level winds in the Atlantic tend to relax, and Saharan dust becomes less widespread allowing for more tropical development.
With September being the peak of the season, its no surprise that we have seen Francine and several other areas of interest this month.
There is still some time left in this year’s hurricane season, so this is likely not the last time the tropics will be a part of our central Georgia weather this year.
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