What to expect from the tropics in August

The Atlantic Hurricane Season is underway, but where do storms typically form in August? And how many do we see in a typical year?

The Atlantic Hurricane Season typically starts to ramp up in August, with activity increasing into September. The reasons for the increase? Warmer ocean temperatures, less wind shear, better-defined tropical waves and less Saharan dust.

In August, tropical storms and hurricanes in the Atlantic are most likely to form in the Main Development Region, which is the area in the Atlantic Ocean between Africa and the Caribbean Islands, as well as in the Gulf of Mexico and the western Caribbean.

The average first hurricane happens on August 11th. While that's not something that's guaranteed to happen every year, it's a good reminder to get prepared.

As hurricane season ramps up, the Weather & Radar app has multiple ways to keep you up-to-date. The WeatherRadar offers a close look at storms as they develop. Notice the difference between Tropical Storm Ophelia and Hurricane Beryl? You can see the defined eye on Hurricane Beryl.

Our WindRadar provides an additional view of tropical storms and hurricanes. You'll see higher wind speeds showing up on the WindRadar as a tropical storm strengthens into a hurricane.

Want the latest news on what's happening in the tropics? You can also get the latest tropical updates in our Daily Brief during hurricane season.