Potential First Tropical Storm of 2025 Expected in May

Meteorologists are monitoring the Caribbean for potential preseason tropical development linked to the Central American Gyre, a broad area of low pressure that could form between May 15 and 22, ahead of the official June 1 start of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season. This gyre can sometimes foster the formation of tropical depressions or storms, though experts currently assess the odds of significant development as low. Should a storm form, it would most likely bring heavy rainfall and localized flooding to Central America, Jamaica, Cuba, and possibly South Florida, but the likely track would take it northeast and out to sea rather than toward the continental U.S. Forecasters emphasize the need for early preparedness, as such systems can develop before the official season, and they predict an active hurricane season overall, with above-average numbers of named storms and hurricanes expected. Businesses and residents are urged to stay alert for updates as the situation evolves. The majority of sources agree on the timing, risk factors, and probable storm tracks.