Why is the Atlantic so quiet this hurricane season?
Original story by
CBS News•Sep 10•Hurricanes, Weather, Storms
📰 Article Summary
The Atlantic hurricane season, typically peaking around September 10, has been quieter in 2025 than expected, with factors such as persistent Saharan dust hindering tropical cyclone formation. Unlike previous years, the current ENSO neutrality (neither El Niño nor La Niña) is playing a role in the reduced hurricane activity. NOAA revised its forecast, predicting an above-average season with 13 to 18 named storms expected, despite only six named systems having developed so far, one of which was the only hurricane this season. As of September 10, 60% of the hurricane season remains, leaving room for potential storms to emerge before the end of the season.
📌 Key Facts
- Quiet Hurricane Activity: Compared to historical norms, the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season has seen reduced activity, with only six named tropical systems so far. This is noteworthy given that tropical storms typically peak around this time of year.
- Influence of Saharan Dust: Saharan dust has been continuous in the Atlantic, creating unfavorable conditions for hurricane development by preventing the necessary thunderstorm activity.
- ENSO Neutral Conditions: The current ENSO neutral phase has contributed to atypical hurricane activity, where the lack of either El Niño or La Niña impacts the usual storm patterns in the Eastern Pacific and Atlantic.
- Updated NOAA Forecast: NOAA has updated its seasonal forecast, predicting between 13 and 18 named storms, emphasizing that despite the current lull, an above-average season is still anticipated.
- Comparison to Last Year: This year mirrors last year's storm count by early September, but fewer storms have made landfall in the U.S., with only one system causing impact so far.
📂 Article Classification
Topic Tags: Hurricane Season Update
📍 Location
USA
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