ORLANDO, Fla. – If you hear chatter about a new tropical system named Alvin, there’s no need to worry. This system is definitely not heading toward Florida.
Tropical Storm Alvin as formed in the eastern Pacific off the coast of Mexico. This makes Alvin the first named storm in the northern hemisphere this year.
It’s worth noting that this late start to activity in the Pacific is a bit unusual. Meteorologists typically begin tracking developments by early-to-mid May. This is why the Pacific hurricane season starts on May 15, while the Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1.
The latest forecasts show a small window for development as the system moves northward. However, in a few days, factors like wind shear, drier air and cooler waters are expected to limit its strength before it approaches the western coast of Mexico.
According to the National Hurricane Center, tropical-storm-force winds are not anticipated to impact mainland Mexico or Baja California.
While this system might grab some headlines for being the first storm of the year in the northern Pacific, it won’t have any major impacts.
That said, this is a good reminder that the Atlantic hurricane season is just around the corner. The Atlantic hurricane season officially begins on June 1, and while the tropical Atlantic is expected to remain quiet for the next week, long-range forecasts suggest we could see some activity by the second week of June.
The first name on the list for Atlantic storms is Andrea.
To read more on that potential development in the Caribbean, click here.
Now is a great time to check your hurricane plans, review your emergency kits, and ensure you’re ready no matter what comes our way. just in case. Stay weather-aware, Florida!