Comparing Atlantic Sea Surface Temperatures: 2017 vs. 2025

Introduction

Sea surface temperatures (SSTs) play a crucial role in the development and intensification of hurricanes. Warmer waters provide the energy needed for storms to form and strengthen. This article compares the SSTs during the 2017 and 2025 Atlantic hurricane seasons to understand their potential impact on storm activity.

Sea Surface Temperatures in 2017

The 2017 Atlantic hurricane season was notably active, with several major hurricanes causing widespread damage. Key SST observations include:

  • Above-Average SSTs: The tropical Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico experienced persistently warmer than normal SSTs throughout the season.
  • Main Development Region (MDR): SSTs in the MDR were approximately 0.96°C above the 1901–2017 average, marking the warmest on record for that period. Source
  • Impact on Hurricanes: These elevated temperatures contributed significantly to the intensity of hurricanes like Harvey, Irma, and Maria.

Sea Surface Temperatures in 2025

As we approach the 2025 hurricane season, SST observations indicate:

  • Near-Average SSTs: Equatorial SSTs are near average across most of the Atlantic Ocean. Source
  • Heat Dome Effects: A significant early-season heat dome over the Gulf of Mexico is contributing to warming ocean temperatures in the Gulf and Caribbean. Source
  • Potential for Warming: While current SSTs are near average, the heat dome may lead to increased SSTs as the season progresses, potentially fueling more intense storms.

Comparison Table: 2017 vs. 2025 SSTs

Region 2017 SSTs 2025 SSTs
Main Development Region (MDR) ~0.96°C above 1901–2017 average Near average
Gulf of Mexico Persistently warmer than normal Warming due to heat dome
Caribbean Sea Above-average SSTs Warming due to heat dome

Conclusion and Analysis

In 2017, significantly above-average SSTs in the Atlantic contributed to one of the most active hurricane seasons on record. As of May 2025, SSTs are near average, but the presence of a heat dome over the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea is causing temperatures to rise. If this warming trend continues, it could lead to more favorable conditions for hurricane development later in the season. Continuous monitoring of SSTs and atmospheric conditions will be essential in predicting the potential activity of the 2025 hurricane season.

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