Cape Verde hurricane season is used to describe an uptick in storm activity originating from Africa.

Tropical waves develop into tropical cyclones between July and September.

The area called the main development region (or MDR) is where most Cape Verde tropical systems get their start and continue to develop.

• Tropical waves move westward off of the African continent every few days, especially in July, August and into September.
• The warmest and deepest waters of the Atlantic are often held in this area.
• During the peak of overall hurricane season, wind shear wanes and storms are able to grow taller.
• The air from northern Africa moistens and allows storms to persist and grow as they transit the Atlantic instead of drying out and collapsing as they do from May into June or July.

Formation areas and typical tracks for tropical storms and hurricanes in July, August and September.

Notable Cape Verde Hurricanes

Tracks of five selected Cape Verde hurricanes.