No Tropical Cyclones Expected, But Four Waves Under Watch

The National Weather Service reports no tropical cyclone activity is expected this week. However, as the peak of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season approaches, the hurricane center has identified four tropical waves in the Atlantic Ocean that warrant monitoring.

Forecasters note that one wave is near Senegal and Gambia, two are in the Caribbean Sea, and the fourth affects the southwest Gulf of Mexico and southern Mexico. All of these systems are moving westward across the Atlantic.

National Hurricane Center Tracking 4 Tropical Waves

• Tropical wave 1: A tropical wave is in the eastern Atlantic Ocean just offshore the west coast of Africa, moving west. Scattered moderate convection is noted.
• Tropical wave 2: A tropical wave is in the Atlantic Ocean approaching the Lesser Antilles, moving west. No deep convection is associated with this tropical wave.
• Tropical wave 3: A tropical wave is in the central Caribbean Sea southward to Panama is moving west. Scattered moderate to locally strong convection is noted off the coast of Panama and Costa Rica.
• Tropical wave 4: A tropical wave has moved into the Bay of Campeche, moving west. Isolated convection is occurring in far southern portions of the Bay of Campeche.

Hurricane Season Peak and Recent Activity

Hurricane Ernesto struck Bermuda on Saturday, causing dangerous surf and rip currents along the East Coast. Earlier in July, Hurricane Beryl became the earliest Category 5 hurricane on record, causing "catastrophic damage" and leading to 20 deaths as it ravaged several Caribbean islands.

Hurricane Storm Tracker

• See active storms in the Atlantic

Texas Weather Watches and Warnings

• Texas weather watches and warnings

Hurricane Season in Texas

Hurricane season in Texas runs from June 1 to November 30, with the peak typically occurring from late August through September. During this time, the state is most at risk for hurricanes and tropical storms, especially along the Gulf Coast.

Severe Weather Alerts

Staying informed about severe weather is crucial for your safety. Here are some ways to get free weather alerts directly on your phone:

• Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA): Most smartphones automatically receive Wireless Emergency Alerts, which are government-issued warnings for severe weather.
• Weather Apps: Download reliable weather apps like The Weather Channel, AccuWeather, and NOAA Weather Radar for real-time updates.
• Emergency Alert Services: Check with your local municipality for free subscription services that send text alerts for weather emergencies.

Hurricane Preparedness for Texans

It's essential to have a disaster kit and an evacuation plan ready. Key items for a disaster kit include:

• Water (one gallon per person per day)

• Nonperishable foods

• Flashlight

• Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio

• Extra batteries

• First-aid kit

• Prescription medications and medical items

• Multipurpose tool

• Sanitation and personal hygiene items

• Copies of personal documents

• Cellphone with chargers and/or portable battery bank

• Family and emergency contact information

• Extra cash

• Sleeping bag or warm blanket

• Maps of your area

• How many hurricanes have hit your area?

• How can Texans prepare for hurricane season?