Visitors planning trips to the Gulf Coast of Mexico next week should be aware that a tropical storm could develop, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC). An area of low pressure currently in the Caribbean is showing a high chance of formation in the early to middle part of next week, potentially impacting travel and activities in popular Mexican Gulf destinations.
Forecast models indicate the possibility of a significant tropical storm or even a hurricane developing in the Gulf of Mexico by the end of next week. While there is still uncertainty in the exact path and intensity of this potential system, the NHC is giving it a 60% chance of forming within the next seven days.
FOX 13 News Meteorologist Nash Rhodes explained that this potential development is linked to the Central American Gyre, a common seasonal weather pattern. “The Central American Gyre is a seasonal feature, a large area of low pressure that we watch around this time of year to form. And as it does so, we’ll be watching for more focused areas of low pressure to form within it. That could become a tropical storm or hurricane lifting into the Gulf of Mexico heading into next week,” Rhodes stated.
In addition to this potential Gulf system, the NHC is also monitoring the remnants of Tropical Storm Gordon in the Atlantic, although this system has a low (0%) chance of redevelopment. Another area of low pressure in the central and western subtropical Atlantic is also being watched, with a very low (10%) chance of development within the next week.
Weather systems being monitored in the Atlantic. Image from FOX 13 News.
Furthermore, a tropical wave is expected to move off the coast of Africa around Sunday or Monday, and this system has a 40% chance of development within the next seven days.
For those with travel plans to the Mexican Gulf Coast, it is crucial to stay informed about the developing weather situation. Monitor updates from the National Hurricane Center and local weather news sources for the latest forecasts and advisories. Being prepared and staying informed is the best way to ensure safety and minimize disruptions to your travel plans should a tropical storm form in the Gulf of Mexico next week.
