Watching the Tropics

Watching the Tropics is updated at 2AM, 5AM, 8AM, 11AM, 2PM, 5PM, 8PM, and 11PM daily
8/13/2026 11:03:43 AM
Atlantic Hurricane Basin Tracking Updates
Watching the Tropics tracks storms destined to the United States East coast, the Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico out of the Atlantic hurricane basin.
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Post-Tropical Cyclone Cristobal Post-Tropical Cyclone Cristobal

Advisory:
8/13/2026 3:00:00 PM
Location:
39.4, -36.8
Winds:
30 mph
Movement:
NE at 16 mph
Pressure:
1018 mb

Post-Tropical Cyclone Cristobal has degenerated into a remnant low and is located about 535 miles WNW of the Azores. It is moving northeast at 16 mph with maximum sustained winds of 30 mph. No coastal watches or warnings are in effect, and the system is expected to dissipate later tonight. This is the final advisory from the National Hurricane Center on Cristobal.

Post-Tropical Cyclone Cristobal - 3 Day Tropical Storm Winds
Post-Tropical Cyclone Cristobal - 3 Day Tropical Storm Winds
Post-Tropical Cyclone Cristobal - Current Wind
Post-Tropical Cyclone Cristobal - Current Wind
Storm Post-Tropical Cyclone Cristobal Spaghetti Models
Post-Tropical Cyclone Cristobal Spaghetti Models
Storm Post-Tropical Cyclone Cristobal Precipitation
Post-Tropical Cyclone Cristobal Precipitation
Storm Post-Tropical Cyclone Cristobal Thunderstorm Probability
Post-Tropical Cyclone Cristobal Thunderstorm Probability
Storm Post-Tropical Cyclone Cristobal wind speed projections
Post-Tropical Cyclone Cristobal Wind Speed Projections
Storm Post-Tropical Cyclone Cristobal wind speed history
Post-Tropical Cyclone Cristobal Wind Speed History
Storm Post-Tropical Cyclone Cristobal historical path
Post-Tropical Cyclone Cristobal Historical Path

Post-Tropical Cyclone Cristobal Status

As the Atlantic hurricane season progresses, Tropical Storm Cristobal has become a focal point for meteorologists and those in its potential path. Currently situated in the Atlantic, models predict various paths it could take, but there is a growing consensus that Cristobal may affect parts of Florida. The National Hurricane Center is closely monitoring its progression, along with two other systems, Invest 92L and Invest 93L, which could develop into tropical storms as well. While exact impacts are yet to be fully determined, Florida residents are advised to stay informed as conditions could change rapidly.

In a parallel development, the Pacific has its eyes on Post-Tropical Cyclone One-C, which is approaching Hawaii. The system poses significant threats, including the potential for dangerous surf and local flooding, prompting officials to urge residents to prepare as it approaches. This highlights the geographical breadth of storm activities affecting both the Atlantic and Pacific regions, increasing the vigilance required in vulnerable areas. With multiple systems under watch, both coasts of the United States are preparing for possible impacts from tropical weather in the coming days.

Invest 94L Invest 94L

Advisory:
8/13/2026 12:00:00 AM UTC
Location:
10.3, -27.5
Winds:
25 mph
Pressure:
1010 mb
Storm Invest 94L Spaghetti Models
Invest 94L Spaghetti Models
Storm Invest 94L Precipitation
Invest 94L Precipitation
Storm Invest 94L Thunderstorm Probability
Invest 94L Thunderstorm Probability
Storm Invest 94L wind speed projections
Invest 94L Wind Speed Projections
Storm Invest 94L wind speed history
Invest 94L Wind Speed History

Invest 94L Status

Over the past few days, meteorologists have been closely monitoring developments in the Atlantic as multiple tropical systems show potential for intensification. Among them, Invest 92L and 94L have grabbed significant attention. These systems currently depict notable similarities in their formation and projected trajectories. Weather models popularly referred to as spaghetti models are invaluable in providing projections for these systems, which are concerning coastal residents, especially in Florida.

Invest 92L has been observed moving steadily across the eastern Atlantic and is likely to follow a trajectory that leads it close to the southeastern United States. Meanwhile, Invest 94L is meandering in the central Atlantic, showing signs of organizing into a stronger tropical system. On the Pacific front, a developing system named Lala is advancing towards Hawaii, generating interest among those who could be affected by its impact over the weekend. As meteorologists continue to analyze data and refine forecasts, vigilance remains crucial for areas prone to these potential impacts.

Invest 93L Invest 93L

Advisory:
8/12/2026 12:00:00 AM UTC
Location:
36.8, -43.9
Winds:
35 mph
Pressure:
1011 mb
Storm Invest 93L Spaghetti Models
Invest 93L Spaghetti Models
Storm Invest 93L Precipitation
Invest 93L Precipitation
Storm Invest 93L Thunderstorm Probability
Invest 93L Thunderstorm Probability
Storm Invest 93L wind speed projections
Invest 93L Wind Speed Projections
Storm Invest 93L wind speed history
Invest 93L Wind Speed History

Invest 93L Status

A tropical wave, currently situated to the east of the Caribbean, is drawing significant attention with an 80% chance of developing into a more pronounced weather system. Meteorologists are closely monitoring its path as it appears poised to move into the Caribbean, potentially impacting regions with intense weather conditions. The progression of this system underscores the heightened vigilance necessary during the active Atlantic hurricane season, with communities urged to stay informed and prepared for sudden changes in weather patterns. This possible development aligns with predictions of an active storm season, reminding coastal and island communities of the need for robust readiness plans.

Additional weather systems, designated as Invest 93L and Invest 94L, are stirring interest in the Atlantic, with spaghetti models suggesting varied paths that could bring them closer to land. Invest 93L is already affecting areas along the northern Gulf Coast, contributing to increasing flood threats in some regions. Meanwhile, in the Pacific, Invest 93C is also under observation with the potential to evolve into a tropical depression by midweek. As these systems develop, they highlight the importance of continuous monitoring and preparedness strategies to mitigate potential impacts on affected areas.

Invest 92L Invest 92L

Advisory:
8/13/2026 12:00:00 AM UTC
Location:
10.8, -44.7
Winds:
25 mph
Pressure:
1010 mb
Storm Invest 92L Spaghetti Models
Invest 92L Spaghetti Models
Storm Invest 92L Precipitation
Invest 92L Precipitation
Storm Invest 92L Thunderstorm Probability
Invest 92L Thunderstorm Probability
Storm Invest 92L wind speed projections
Invest 92L Wind Speed Projections
Storm Invest 92L wind speed history
Invest 92L Wind Speed History

Invest 92L Status

Weather patterns in the Atlantic are generating significant attention as multiple storm systems are developing, with potential impacts on Florida. Currently, Invest 92L and Invest 94L are closely monitored by meteorologists as both systems could intensify and affect weather conditions in the region. Additionally, Tropical Storm Cristobal and Dolly have been named, and their spaghetti models show varying trajectories, some pointing towards the United States, potentially impacting Florida's weather. Experts are paying particular attention to high-pressure systems and other atmospheric features that could alter the paths of these storms.

The immediate forecast suggests that one of these systems could evolve into a tropical depression as soon as Friday, with models tracking it towards the Caribbean. While the exact impact remains uncertain, the potential for severe weather has prompted state officials and residents to remain alert and prepared for possible outcomes. As systems like Invest 92L and 94L continue to develop, the National Hurricane Center emphasizes the importance of monitoring updates and being ready for any shifts in forecasted paths. The situation underlines the unpredictable nature of hurricane season and the need for ongoing vigilance across potentially affected areas.

7 Day Tropical Weather Outlook
7 Day Tropical Weather Outlook
2 Day Tropical Weather Outlook
2 Day Tropical Weather Outlook
GOES 19
Sandwich Composite
Sandwich Composite
Today's Tornado Risk
Today's Tornado Risk
8-14 Day Temperature Outlook
8-14 Day Temperature Outlook
8-14 Day Precipitation Outlook
8-14 Day Precipitation Outlook
Global Tropics Hazard Outlook
Global Tropics Hazard Outlook
30 Day Coral Reef Watch
Current Atlantic and Gulf Radar
Current Atlantic and Gulf Winds

Atlantic Hurricane Basin Summary

August 13, 2026, at 6:00 AM EDT

The Caribbean is on alert as a Gale Warning is set to take effect Friday evening, impacting the Gulf of Venezuela and areas offshore Colombia due to an intensifying pressure gradient. Trade winds across the eastern and central Caribbean are expected to strengthen, causing gales and very rough seas of up to 15 ft. These conditions will prevail Friday night but are expected to decrease by Saturday morning.

Invest AL92, a system currently located in the Central Tropical Atlantic, is showing signs of organization. It has a high chance of developing into a tropical depression within the next 48 hours as it moves westward. However, unfavorable upper-level winds are anticipated to hinder further development by Friday as it nears the Lesser Antilles.

A tropical wave along 27W-28W is being monitored for development, with a medium chance of turning into a tropical depression over the next seven days as it traverses the Atlantic. Additionally, two other waves are present in the region: one along 67W-68W moving across Venezuela and the Dominican Republic, and another along 77W through the central Caribbean.

High pressure remains over the Gulf of America, sustaining a pattern of gentle to moderate winds with slightly higher velocities near the Yucatan Peninsula each evening. In the Atlantic, Invest AL92 is accompanying a stretch of fresh to strong winds and rough seas. Meanwhile, the Atlantic ridge will continue to influence the weather patterns, leading to freshening trade winds across various regions in the upcoming days.

2026 Hurricane Prediction

​NOAA's 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has forecasted an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season for 2025.

  • Named Storms: 8 to 14

  • Hurricanes: 3 to 6

  • Major Hurricanes (Category 3 or higher): 1 to 3

  • Accumulate Cyclone Energy (ACE): 95% to 180% of the median

  • Primary Influencing Factor: Developing El Niño conditions expected to suppress Atlantic storm activity

This forecast indicates:

  • 55% chance of a below-normal season
  • 35% chance of a near-normal season
  • 10% chance of an above-normal season

Despite the lower forecast, NOAA emphasizes that it only takes one hurricane making landfall to create a major disaster, and residents in hurricane-prone areas should still prepare as usual for the season.

Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30

2026 Storm Names

Arthur- TS Bertha- TS Cristobal- TS Dolly Edouard Fay Gonzalo Hanna Isaias Josephine Kyle Leah Marco Nana Omar Paulett Rene Sally Teddy Vicky Wilfred

Key: Active Past Future

*Press/click the storm name to view additional details

2025 Hurricane Summary

  • 13 named storms
  • 5 hurricanes
  • 4 major hurricanes (Cat. 3+)
  • Total damage: ~$9.4 billion
Notable Hurricanes
  • Hurricane Erin: In August, Erin rapidly intensified into a Category 5 hurricane over the Atlantic, becoming one of the strongest storms of the season. Although it remained offshore of the United States, it generated dangerous surf, coastal flooding, and massive waves along portions of the East Coast.
  • Hurricane Gabrielle: Gabrielle strengthened into a powerful Category 4 hurricane in September over the central Atlantic before transitioning into an extratropical system near Europe, bringing impacts to the Azores and parts of Spain.
  • Hurricane Humberto: Humberto became another Category 5 hurricane during the season but stayed over open Atlantic waters, contributing significantly to the season’s above-normal ACE despite limited land impacts
  • Hurricane Melissa: Melissa was the strongest storm of the 2025 Atlantic season, intensifying into a catastrophic Category 5 hurricane before making landfall in Jamaica near peak intensity. The storm caused widespread destruction across Jamaica and was later retired from the Atlantic naming list due to its severity.

Despite fewer total storms than forecasted, the 2025 season produced several extremely intense hurricanes, including three Category 5 systems, making it one of the more powerful Atlantic seasons in recent history.

Atlantic Hurricane Statistics

Named
Hurricanes
Major
Average
14.4
7.2
3.2
High
30
15
7
Low
4
2
0

Most Active Hurricane Season

2020 - 30 named storms, 14 hurricanes

Costliest Hurricanes

Hurricane Katrina (2005) - $125 billion

Harvey (2017) - $125 billion

Strongest Hurricanes (Based on Wind Speed)

Hurricane Patricia (2015) - 215 mph (345 km/h)

Hurricane Allen (1980) - 190 mph (305 km/h)

Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale

Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale in MPH

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is a 1 to 5 rating system that classifies hurricanes based on their sustained wind speeds and the potential damage they can cause. It helps communicate the intensity of hurricanes and the likely impacts on structures and environments. The scale does not account for factors like storm surge or rainfall, focusing only on wind speeds.

About Watching the Tropics

Watching the Tropics was originally built as a personal storm tracker with only the most important charts for the Atlantic hurricane basin. Numerous sites are available for tracking hurricanes, but Watching the Tropics minimizes extra "noise" and shows only what you need.

Designed in Florida by

Dillaman Research DillaDev.com

What does Watching the Tropics mean?

"Watching the tropics" refers to monitoring tropical weather systems, such as tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes, in regions close to the equator. Meteorologists and weather enthusiasts often use this phrase during hurricane season to indicate that they're keeping an eye on developing weather systems that could potentially strengthen and impact areas like the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and Atlantic Ocean.

Websites, news outlets, or weather services also use "Tropics Watch" to keep the public informed about the latest developments in the tropics, especially during peak hurricane season.

What is an "invest" in the context of hurricanes?

An "invest" refers to an area of disturbed weather that meteorologists are investigating for potential tropical development. The term "invest" is short for "investigation area."

When an area is designated as an invest, it is given a number (between 90 and 99) followed by the letter "L" for systems in the North Atlantic or "E" for systems in the Eastern Pacific. For example, "Invest 91L" would refer to the 91st area of interest in the Atlantic basin for that season.

The designation of an invest allows meteorologists to focus their resources on a specific area, utilize specialized forecasting models, and issue updates as needed.

What is a Tropical Depression?

A tropical depression is a type of tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of less than 39 mph (34 knots or 63 km/h).

Key characteristics:

  • Organized system of clouds and thunderstorms
  • Has a defined surface circulation
  • Lacks the wind intensity of stronger tropical cyclones
  • May eventually strengthen into a tropical storm if conditions are favorable

It's the first stage of development in the tropical cyclone classification used by the National Hurricane Center, followed by tropical storm and then hurricane.

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