NHC tracking 4 tropical waves as hurricane season begins to peak ahead of Labor Day

The National Weather Service reports no tropical cyclone activity is expected this week. However, the hurricane center has identified four tropical waves in the Atlantic Ocean that warrant monitoring as we approach the peak of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season.

Forecasters note that one wave is near Senegal and Gambia, two are in the Caribbean Sea, and the fourth affects the southwest Gulf of Mexico and southern Mexico. All of these systems are moving westward across the Atlantic.

Here is what to be aware of as the hurricane season peaks.

National Hurricane Center tracking 4 tropical waves

• Tropical wave 1: A tropical wave is in the eastern Atlantic Ocean just offshore the west coast of Africa, moving west. Scattered moderate convection is noted.
• Tropical wave 2: A tropical wave is in the Atlantic Ocean approaching the Lesser Antilles, moving west. No deep convection is associated with this tropical wave.
• Tropical wave 3: A tropical wave is in the central Caribbean Sea southward to Panama is moving west. Scattered moderate to locally strong convection is noted off the coast of Panama and Costa Rica.
• Tropical wave 4: A tropical wave has moved into the Bay of Campeche, moving west. Isolated convection is occurring in far southern portions of the Bay of Campeche.

When is the peak of hurricane season?

Hurricane Ernesto struck Bermuda on Saturday , causing dangerous surf and rip currents along the East Coast. Earlier in July, Hurricane Beryl became the earliest Category 5 hurricane on record , causing "catastrophic damage" and leading to 20 deaths as it ravaged several Caribbean islands.

Hurricane storm tracker: See active storms in the Atlantic

Texas weather watches and warnings

When is hurricane season in Texas?

Hurricane season in Texas runs from June 1 to November 30, with the peak typically occurring from late August through September.

During this time, the state is most at risk for hurricanes and tropical storms, especially along the Gulf Coast.

Sign up for text alerts about severe weather

Staying informed about severe weather is crucial for your safety, and one of the most effective ways to do this is by receiving free weather alerts directly on your phone. There are several ways to get these alerts, ensuring you're always prepared for sudden changes in the weather.

• Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA): Most smartphones automatically receive Wireless Emergency Alerts, which are government-issued warnings for severe weather, like tornadoes, hurricanes, and flash floods. These alerts are sent based on your location, so you’ll get the information you need, right when you need it.
• Weather Apps: Downloading a reliable weather app is another great way to get real-time updates. Apps like The Weather Channel, AccuWeather, and NOAA Weather Radar offer free alerts that can be customized to notify you of severe weather conditions, including thunderstorms, high winds, and extreme temperatures.
• Emergency Alert Services: Many local governments and emergency management agencies offer free subscription services that send text alerts for weather emergencies in your area. Check with your local municipality to see if this service is available where you live.

How many hurricanes have hit your area?

How can Texans prepare for hurricane season?

It's a good idea to have a disaster kit and an evacuation plan ready, in the event that a hurricane hits your city.

Key items for a disaster kit include:

• Water − one gallon per person per day
• Nonperishable foods such as canned or dry items
• A flashlight
• A battery-powered or hand-cranked radio
• Extra batteries
• A first-aid kit
• Prescription medications and medical items
• A multipurpose tool that includes a screwdriver, a knife and pliers
• Sanitation and personal hygiene items such as wet wipes
• Copies of personal documents such as medication lists, medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates and insurance policies
• A cellphone with chargers and/or a portable battery bank
• Family and emergency contact information
• Extra cash
• A sleeping bag or warm blanket
• Maps of your area

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: NHC tracking 4 tropical waves as hurricane season begins to peak ahead of Labor Day