ICYMI: Atlantic Hurricane Season 2016's Peak is Now

TAMPA BAY, FL — As Tropical Storm Gaston and three unnamed disturbances swirl in the Atlantic Ocean, scientists at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration say there is a good reason for so much activity all at once. The peak of the 2016 Atlantic Hurricane Season has officially arrived.

While hurricane season technically lasts from June 1 to Nov. 30, forecasters call the period between mid-August and mid-October the “season within the season.” This eight-week period “is often the most active and dangerous time for tropical cyclone activity,” NOAA explained on its website.

The eight-week period that starts now is historically responsible for major spikes in tropical weather activity, NOAA said. In fact, it accounts for about 78 percent of all tropical storm days on record. It is also the period when 87 percent of the category 1 and 2 hurricane days on record occurred. In addition, this period is responsible for “a whopping 96 percent of the major (category 3, 4 and 5) hurricane days.”

So, what makes this eight-week stretch so special?

“Tropical waves are coming off of the coast of Africa roughly every three days, and the very early and late parts of the year provide additional types of potential seedlings,” NOAA’s website explains.

Other environmental conditions this time of year tend to be more conducive for storm development, as well. The factors that align during this period include wind, temperature and moisture. Wind shear that might rip disturbance apart in May, for example, tend to weaken by late August, NOAA said.

See also: Tropical Storm Gaston Holds Steady; 3 Disturbances Under Watch

“This minimum in the shear combines with favorable thermodynamics – ocean temperatures in the deep tropics that increase with each day of summer sun, warmer air temperatures, and increasing atmospheric moisture,” NOAA explained. “When the dynamics and thermodynamics are in sync, as they often are from mid-August through early October, disturbances like African tropical waves can easily strengthen.”

The conditions gradually become less ripe for development in mid-October when increased wind shear tends to reappear and water and air temperatures cool. While the season continues through Nov. 30, the areas where storms can develop becomes limited, NOAA explained.

Although the peak of the season is now, with Sept. 10 being the statistical peak day, forecasters warn that preparation and vigilance are critical for residents in coastal areas from June through November.

“It doesn’t matter whether activity levels are high or low – it only takes one storm to make it a bad year for you,” forecasters warn.

Tampa Bay hasn’t been struck by a hurricane in more than 90 years. Experts say the region's lucky streak isn’t likely to last. It’s not a question of if, but when, forecasters say.

To find out more about hurricane season and storm preparation, read these related Patch stories:

• Hurricane Season 2016: Where To Find Local Information
• 2016 Atlantic Hurricane Season Forecast Released
• Hurricane Season: How to Prepare
• 2016 Hurricane Names: Is Yours On the List?
• Tampa Bay 'Ripe for Disaster,' Hurricane Experts Say

To keep up with storm activity as the season develops, bookmark the National Hurricane Center’s website and keep an eye on your hometown Patch site for local information.

Graphics courtesy of NOAA