Anomalous Water Surface Temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico May Lead to Increased Tornado Activity

The Washington Post has written an article discussing the anomalously high water temperatures seen in the Gulf of Mexico and their potential impact on the 2023 tornado season. As tornado activity continues to break historical records, more scientists are researching what variables impact their development, including sea surface temperatures. A 2019 paper found a “robust dynamical linkage” between sea temperature in the Gulf and annual tornado activity in the Great Plains. Meteorologists also note warmer temperatures mean more moisture is in the air, providing the warm, humid air tornados require to form. However, similar to prior WaterISAC reporting on the current viability of long-term tornado forecasts, scientists continue to stress the full impact of these abnormally high temperatures on seasonal activity is still unknown. Read more at the Washington Post.