Hurricane Beryl, its too early for this

Hurricane Beryl has captured national attention after becoming the earliest category 5 storm in Atlantic hurricane history. The previous earliest category 5 was Hurricane Emily on July 16 during the 2005 Atlantic hurricane season. This powerful storm barreled over Grenada on Monday and currently churns in the Caribbean Sea with winds measuring 165 mph. It will approach Jamaica by Wednesday, where a hurricane warning is in effect. Heavy rains and flash flooding are likely over much of the island. A tropical storm warning is also in effect for the south coast of Hispaniola.

This is expected to be an active hurricane season. The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasts 17 to 25 named storms, with eight to 13 expected to become hurricanes, and four to seven becoming major hurricanes (Category 3 or stronger). The forecasts are influenced by several key factors, primarily sea surface temperatures (SSTs). Warmer SSTs enhance tropical cyclone activity and right now SSTs are near record highs for this time of year.

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