Tropical Storm Gaston Approaching Azores | WeatherBug
Main Menu
Responsive menu icon

Tropical Storm Gaston Approaching Azores

August 14, 2017
UPDATED By WeatherBug Meteorologist, Andrew Rosenthal

While the U.S. deals with Tropical Storm Hermine, the Atlantic remains busy as well. Tropical Storm Gaston, which has successfully avoided land until now, is approaching the Flores Island in the western Azores.

As of 5 p.m. EDT, Tropical Storm Gaston was located near 39.6 N and 30.4 W, or about 115 miles northwest of Faial Island in the Central Azores, and about 185 miles west of Lajes Air Base in the Azores. It is moving to the east-northeast at 17 mph and its top sustained winds are 50 mph, making it a tropical storm. Its minimum central pressure is 1000 mb, or 29.53 inches of mercury.

Gaston will weaken over the next several days as it encounters cooler water and stronger upper-level winds. However, Gaston is on a bee-line for the Azores, and is likely to cross the island chain today. A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for Faial, Pico, Graciosa, Sao Jorge, Terciera, Flores and Corvo.

With Gaston moving over cooler water, it is likely to lose tropical characteristics and become a remnant low in the next 12 to 24 hours.

Not surprisingly, the Atlantic Hurricane season peaks from this time of the year until mid-September when sea surface temperatures are the warmest. It is important to pay attention to tropical forecasts when planning a late-season trip to the beach or any tropical destination so you can Know Before and prepare in advance.