The upcoming tropical storm stirring in the Atlantic this hurricane season will carry the name Dolly. The designation comes purely by chance and is not linked to the recent news surrounding the beloved country music icon, Dolly Parton.
Storm names are designated through a systematic approach established by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), with these lists of names being recycled every six years. The names alternate between male and female, following an alphabetical order.
What’s Happening in the Atlantic?
This hurricane season kicked off with Tropical Storm Arthur making landfall on the U.S. Gulf Coast back in June. Shortly after, Tropical Storm Bertha brought heavy rainfall to Louisiana and Texas during July. Earlier in August, Tropical Storm Cristobal formed and dissolved relatively quickly in the Atlantic.
The National Hurricane Center has been closely monitoring a weather disturbance off the coast of Africa, which is showing potential to evolve into a named tropical storm. Currently, weather experts report that conditions may soon be favorable for this cluster of thunderstorms located south of the Cabo Verde Islands to develop into a tropical depression.
If this system intensifies to achieve sustained winds reaching at least 39 mph, it will be labeled Tropical Storm Dolly.
Looking Ahead: The Hurricane Season Forecast
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has predicted a below-average hurricane season for the Atlantic, largely due to the influence of El Niño. Their forecast suggests we might see between eight to fourteen named storms this year, of which three to six could attain hurricane status, and potentially one to three may strengthen into major hurricanes.
To streamline communication about these storms and mitigate confusion, agencies like the NHC assign names. The WMO emphasizes that names should be brief, easily pronounced, and recognizable in the regions affected. Regular evaluations ensure names stay appropriate, and sensitive names associated with severe storms, like the recently retired name Melissa from the 2025 season, are kept in consideration to honor the impact of catastrophic events.
