Tropical Storm Danny forms in Atlantic, could reach hurricane status by Friday

“Gradual strengthening is forecast during the next 48 hours, and the depression is expected to become a tropical storm later today”, according to an advisory from the National Hurricane Center.

In order for Danny to be categorized as a hurricane, the tropical storm must reach sustained winds of at least 74 miles per hour. It is moving west at 12 miles per hour, according to the most recent update on Wednesday.

Forecasting models give mixed signals on how much.

This year’s El Niño could rival the one of 18 years ago, which would mean fewer Atlantic hurricanes as a result of increased upper level winds that prevent them from developing. This will strengthen to a category two hurricane over the weekend as it heads toward the islands, however this system will have no impact on us here in Eastern North Carolina.

The storm now poses no threat to land; there are no watches or warnings in effect.

Mobile users, tap here to see the names for the 2015 Atlantic Hurricane Season. That’s due to the El Nino which has formed in the Pacific Ocean. The chance for a passing shower or storm will continue tonight but the coverage of rain should gradually thin out after sunset.

The United States’ Climate Prediction Centre recently adjusted its Atlantic hurricane season outlook to a 90 per cent chance of a below-normal hurricane season, 20 per cent higher than projections given in May.