Atlantic Hurricane Outlook – June 20, 2025: Tropics Hold Quiet as Atlantic Patterns Begin to Shift
The Atlantic remains calm with no storms expected, but warm waters and shifting atmospheric patterns hint that the quiet may not last. A developing Atlantic Niña could hit a reversal and amplify activity later this season.
As we close out the third week of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, the basin remains quiet. No named storms or tropical disturbances are being monitored by the National Hurricane Center (NHC), and no development is expected over the next 7 days. However, behind this calm lies a subtle shift in Atlantic patterns that may influence storm activity in the weeks ahead.
Atlantic Basin: All Clear—for Now
As of the latest NHC update (8 AM EDT, June 20):
No active tropical cyclones
No areas of interest
No tropical development expected through late June
This type of quiet is typical for mid-June, historically a transitional period before activity ramps up in July and peaks from August to October.
Satellite view via Windy.com
Sea Surface Temperatures: Still Hot, Still Fuel
Sea surface temperatures (SSTs) across much of the Atlantic remain well above normal:
Gulf of America (Mexico): Mid to upper 80s°F (29–31°C), 2–4°F above average
Western Caribbean: Similar anomalies, particularly near the Yucatán and Cuba
Main Development Region (MDR): Still warming gradually, trending toward conditions that could support long-track storms later this season
Warm SSTs are a critical energy source for hurricanes—and the heat is already in place.
Sea Surface Temperature (ECMWF Analysis) via Windy.com
Atmospheric Conditions: Neutral ENSO, but Atlantic Cooling Briefly
While the Pacific remains in an ENSO-neutral phase, a rare “Atlantic Niña” has recently emerged—marked by cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the eastern tropical Atlantic off the coast of Africa, as seen in the NOAA Coral Reef Watch chart below with a pocket of blue.
This can temporarily suppress early-season hurricane formation by reducing convection and stabilizing the atmosphere
However, models indicate that this pattern may reverse in July, shifting into a warmer Atlantic Niño phase, which typically boosts tropical activity
So, while the Atlantic Niña may be limiting development now, forecasters are closely watching the timing of this transition. Safe money would be on a reversal, which could super charge storm breeding.
Overall Scope of Sea Temperature Anomalies
Saharan Air Layer: Still Limiting Tropical Waves
Wind Shear Courtesy of https://tropic.ssec.wisc.edu/
A strong Saharan Air Layer (SAL) remains entrenched across the tropical Atlantic:
Dry, dusty air suppresses thunderstorm development
Increases stability and upper-level wind shear
Common in June, but typically weakens by mid-July
For now, SAL continues to act as a shield against organized tropical development in the Main Development Region.
Saharan Air Layer (Dust) data via Windy.com
Thunderstorm Activity: Mostly Seasonal and Local
While no tropical organization is underway, convection continues to pop up in key regions:
Florida and Gulf Coast: Afternoon storms due to heat and humidity
Western Caribbean: Scattered convection, but unorganized
Eastern Atlantic: A few tropical waves exiting Africa remain weak and embedded in dry air
These thunderstorms are typical for the season and do not currently show signs of tropical development.
Thunderstorm Forecast (ECMWF) via Windy.com
Florida Forecast
Highs: Upper 80s to low 90s°F (31–33°C)
Humidity: High
Afternoon Storms: Scattered area of thunderstorms likely after 2 PM
Winds: Light and variable, with storm gusts possible
Flooding in low-lying areas is possible if storms linger over one area.
Rainfall Forecast (ECMWF) via Windy.com
Prep Tip of the Day: Restock Pet Supplies
Don’t forget your furry family members when preparing for hurricane season:
Have a two-week supply of pet food, medications, and water
Keep vaccination records and vet contact info in your go-bag
Prepare a small pet first-aid kit
Label pet carriers clearly and store them where they’re easy to grab
Looking Ahead: Transition Coming
For now, the Atlantic basin is calm. But forecasters continue to watch:
Warm SSTs
Easing wind shear
Gradual return of moisture
Potential reversal from Atlantic Niña to Atlantic Niño
All signs point to a more active environment forming as we move into July. Stay alert, stay prepared, and check back tomorrow for your daily hurricane outlook from Cat5Prep.com.
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