Experts are warning that the risk of a hurricane striking Yucatán has increased, mainly because it’s been a long time since the region experienced a direct impact. This year, two Category 3 or stronger Atlantic hurricanes are expected.
According to specialists, the Atlantic hurricane season is expected to stay within normal activity levels for the year. However, several forecasts are still pending in the coming months, meaning people in Yucatán should keep a close eye on weather updates.
The initial forecast includes:
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13 total cyclones
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8 tropical storms
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3 moderate hurricanes (Category 1 or 2)
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2 intense hurricanes (Category 3 or higher)
It’s still unknown exactly when and where these systems might form.
More forecasts are expected in June and July, with another update likely toward the end of August. Meteorologists also noted that once the El Niño weather pattern comes to an end, conditions in the Atlantic may become more favorable for hurricane development. That makes it even more important for Yucatán residents to stay informed.
Last year, 15 tropical systems developed in the Atlantic. At least two of them—“Florence” and “Michael”—caused major damage in the United States. As a result, the season was classified as catastrophic by weather experts.
For Yucatán, the concern is especially high this year. The risk of a direct hurricane impact has grown significantly, simply because it hasn’t happened in a long time. The last major storm to hit the state directly was Hurricane Isidore in 2002. Hurricane Dean followed in 2007 but affected the broader Yucatán Peninsula.
Source: la verdadnoticias.com