Fourth tropical depression forms in Atlantic Ocean

A fourth tropical depression has formed in the Atlantic Ocean, in addition to a tropical wave in the Gulf of Mexico, both of which could develop into hurricanes.

Speculation is already rife that an Air Force reconnaissance plane may need to fly into the Gulf system for data gathering, on what is expected to be a record hurricane season.

Surface sea temperatures are already above normal in both the Atlantic and Caribbean, in a year that has already seen extreme storms across Europe and Asia.

Around 95% of hurricanes form between August and October, and because of weather patterns already observed, the NOAA is expecting to see around 13-16 named tropical storms, with as many as 7 to 9 forming into hurricanes.

The fear is that current volatility in the world’s financial markets could be further impacted if US oil production and refining facilities in the Gulf of Mexico are adversely affected during the hurricane season, especially as the driving season gives over to the winter fuel demands.

Unfortunately, the recent trend in weather patterns has already shown increased activity and strength observed in Atlantic hurricanes, and with La Nina weather patterns already having a global impact, any potential hurricane activity will be closely watched indeed.