Tropical storm Arlene an early start to the 2017 Atlantic season

Tropical storm Arlene formed yesterday in the Atlantic, bringing an early start to the 2017 Atlantic tropical storm and hurricane season and becoming only the second April named tropical storm in the Atlantic basin since tracking with satellites began.

Tropical storm Arlene will provide an early reminder that hurricane season is coming for insurance, reinsurance, ILS and catastrophe bond interests, and also a reminder that tropical activity can occur outside of the traditional June to November storm season.

Arlene formed as a central Atlantic low a few days ago and forecasters quickly caught it and predicted a 50% chance of the formation of a subtropical depression.

Subtropical Depression One was named on the 19th April and forecasters then found it transitioned into a full tropical depression yesterday, subsequently being named tropical storm Arlene yesterday afternoon.

Arlene is no threat to land, forecasters have decided and the expectation is that the tropical storm will dissipate over the coming day or so as it becomes absorbed into an extra-tropical system.

Tropical storm Arlene has managed to generate 50 mph sustained winds and is moving rapidly towards the north west.

Arlene is unusual but also a reminder that the tropics do not follow strict rules. With 2017 Atlantic hurricane season forecasts suggesting a slightly below average season, but with some uncertainty surrounding the effects of sea surface temperatures and ENSO conditions, this is a useful reminder that the season is fast approaching.

Track tropical storms as they develop with our dedicated page on the 2017 hurricane season will be updated as new forecasts emerge and as storms form throughout the year.

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