Atlantic Tropical Development Stifled by Multiple Atmospheric Factors
Tropical development in the Atlantic is being stifled by wind shear, Saharan dust, and El Niño conditions, with a lone disturbance having a low chance of forming.
Tampa St. Petersburg, FL, September 16, 2026 —
Atmospheric conditions across the Atlantic basin are currently hindering the formation and development of tropical cyclones. Several key factors are working in conjunction to suppress tropical activity, according to meteorological observations.
Forecasters are citing significant wind shear as a primary impediment. Wind shear, which is a change in wind speed or direction with altitude, can disrupt the vertical structure of developing storms, tearing them apart before they can organize into significant systems. This phenomenon is a common factor in limiting tropical cyclone genesis.
In addition to wind shear, a substantial influx of Saharan dust is contributing to the suppression of tropical development. This dust, often referred to as a “dust plume” or “Saharan Air Layer” (SAL), can create dry air and increased atmospheric stability, further inhibiting the thunderstorms that are crucial for storm formation. The presence of Saharan dust is a seasonal occurrence in the Atlantic but can be particularly impactful when combined with other atmospheric disturbances.
Furthermore, the prevailing El Niño conditions are playing a role in the current state of the Atlantic. El Niño typically influences global weather patterns, and in the Atlantic, it is often associated with increased wind shear and a more stable atmosphere, both of which are detrimental to tropical storm formation.
Currently, there is a lone disturbance noted within the Atlantic, but its potential for development into a tropical depression or storm is considered low. The combined influence of the aforementioned factors is creating an environment that is unfavorable for tropical cyclone activity. Meteorologists continue to monitor the region for any shifts in these atmospheric conditions that could alter the outlook for the remainder of the tropical storm season.
Story summarized from the original created by Dave.Osterberg@fox.com (Dave Osterberg) on www.fox13news.com, see more information here.
