2010 Atlantic Hurricane Season: Alex

Early this weekend, Tropical Depression One, then located south of Cuba, developed into the first named storm of the 2010 Atlantic Hurricane Season, Tropical Storm Alex.

Now moving across the Yucatan Peninsula in southern Mexico, it has weakened back into a tropical depression, but is expected to strengthen as it moves away from land and into the Gulf of Mexico.

Yesterday, most forecasters predicted the storm would make landfall somewhere along Mexico's more northern coastline. Today, expectations are shifting. Below is a screenshot from a tracking map at Weather Underground:

 (Click the image to view it larger.)

The lines protruding from the storm's current location are computer models predicting possible paths the storm may take. Even ignoring the lines associated with Hurricane Darby in the lower left-hand corner, it is clear that we have absolutely no idea what this storm is going to do.

It is too early to make accurate predictions; the map has completely shifted in the past 48 hours. Depending on where it hits, the storm should make landfall again in the next 3-7 days, but we don't know yet what strength it will be.

Thus, those living on the Gulf Coast should take the appropriate precautions. Stock up on food and water, keep at least half a tank of gasoline in your car, and move or secure loose objects, such as lawn chairs and plants, outside your home. It is better to assume we'll be affected than to be caught off guard by an approaching storm.

Track the storm's movements and stay up-to-date on forecasted activity by visiting The National Hurricane Center's website at www.nhc.noaa.gov. There you will find public advisories, maps, and other information regarding this and other developments in the Atlantic (and the Pacific).