Karl Expected to Gain Strength in Trek Across Atlantic, Could Become a Hurricane

September 18,2016
Tropical Storm Karl continues its slow voyage across the central Atlantic deep in a multi-day fight with wind shear and dry air.
Wind shear and dry air are both inhibitors to tropical development. Karl, however, could become a hurricane in the days ahead as wind shear relaxes.
As of Sunday evening, Karl was centered more than 1,000 miles east of the Leeward Islands.
(MORE: Check the Forecast for Tropical Storm Julia)

Current Storm Information

Karl is forecast to move west to west-northwest along the southern periphery of a ridge of high pressure in the central Atlantic through the next five days.
(MORE: How Often Do Tropical Cyclones Form Over Land?)

Projected Path

Karl will not directly impact the Leeward Islands as it curls well to their north in the week ahead.
As Karl reaches the western periphery of the aforementioned area of high pressure, it will begin to turn north by late this week and next weekend.

Karl's Steering Late Week

For this reason, residents and visitors of Bermuda should monitor the progress of Karl throughout this week.
Karl is expected to become a hurricane mid-way between Bermuda and Puerto Rico by Thursday.
At this time, it seems unlikely that Karl will impact the U.S. coastline directly. That said, this is very far out in time and forecast changes are possible. Stay tuned for updates in the days ahead.

MORE: Hurricanes from Above