How Did Hurricane Beryl Start?
Hurricane Beryl was a tropical cyclone that formed in the Atlantic Ocean in June 2018. The storm caused significant damage and disruption along its path, particularly in the Caribbean and parts of Central America. But where did this powerful hurricane come from? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the formation of Hurricane Beryl.
The Atlantic Hurricane Season
Before we dive into the specifics of Hurricane Beryl, it’s important to understand the context of the Atlantic hurricane season. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, and is characterized by the formation of tropical cyclones in the Atlantic Ocean. These storms occur when a combination of atmospheric conditions come together, including warm ocean water, low pressure, and wind shear.
The Birth of Hurricane Beryl
Hurricane Beryl formed on June 15, 2018, as a tropical depression, a rotating system of clouds and thunderstorms that has sustained winds of less than 39 mph. The depression was located about 1,000 miles east of the Lesser Antilles, a chain of small islands in the eastern Caribbean.
At the time, the atmosphere was ripe for tropical cyclone formation. The ocean temperatures were above average, reaching up to 28°C (82°F), and there was a lack of vertical wind shear, which allows storms to develop and strengthen.
The Key Players
Several factors contributed to the formation and intensification of Hurricane Beryl. These included:
- High Pressure System: A high-pressure system was located over the southeastern United States, which helped to steer the tropical depression westward across the Atlantic.
- Warm Ocean Waters: The ocean temperatures were conducive to tropical cyclone formation, providing a source of energy for the storm.
- Low Wind Shear: The lack of wind shear allowed the storm to develop and strengthen without being disrupted by strong winds or changes in atmospheric pressure.
- Moisture: The atmosphere was full of moisture, which helped to fuel the storm’s growth and intensification.
The Early Stages
As the tropical depression moved westward, it began to intensify, with its sustained winds reaching 39 mph on June 16. Over the next few days, the storm continued to strengthen, becoming a tropical storm on June 17 and then a hurricane on June 19.
Conclusion
Hurricane Beryl’s formation can be attributed to a combination of factors, including high pressure, warm ocean waters, low wind shear, and ample moisture. The storm’s early stages were characterized by a steady intensification, which ultimately led to its classification as a hurricane. Understanding the conditions that lead to the formation of tropical cyclones like Hurricane Beryl can help us better prepare for and respond to these powerful storms.
