Experts Warn Against “Apocalyptic Fantasy” Hurricane Forecasts

Social media is buzzing with alarming posts about massive hurricanes hitting Florida later in August. But meteorologists say — don’t panic.

NBC6 hurricane expert John Morales stressed that predictions beyond seven to 10 days are unreliable. “People are taking computer model outputs — even from AI — two weeks out and posting them, making people nervous,” Morales said. “That’s just fantastical speculation.”

The National Hurricane Center is currently tracking two systems. The first, in the central Atlantic, has a 20% chance of developing in the next week. The second, a tropical wave off Africa, has a 40% chance as it moves westward.

While warm waters and low wind shear could support development, Saharan dust and the absence of a low-pressure center make predictions difficult.

Bottom line: The situation could change, but there’s no reason for fear-driven hype.