Don becomes 1st hurricane of 2023 Atlantic season

After developing as a subtropical storm more than a week ago, Don continued its evolution on Saturday when it became a Category 1 hurricane.

For the first time this season, a hurricane has formed over the Atlantic Ocean. Late Saturday afternoon, Tropical Storm Don strengthened into a hurricane well away from any landmass. And just like that, less than 24 hours later, Don is back down to tropical storm intensity.

Don, now once again a tropical storm, is the fourth named storm of the 2023 Atlantic season. Three tropical storms formed in June, including Tropical Storm Bret, which had peak maximum sustained winds of 70 miles per hour--just 4 mph shy of the criteria for hurricane strength on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.

AccuWeather meteorologists explain that Don's time as a hurricane was so brief because it drifted over an area of cooler waters, which caused the system to lose wind intensity.

As of 5 a.m. EST Monday, Tropical Storm Don had maximum sustained winds of 45 mph and was moving east-northeast at 18 mph. Don was located about 475 miles southeast of Cape Race, Newfoundland. Don initially formed as a subtropical storm on July 14 and has stayed away from land during its meandering journey.

The storm is not a threat to land as it continues on a northeastern path in the Atlantic Ocean, and will likely lose all tropical characteristics later on Monday. AccuWeather meteorologists continue monitor an area off to Don's south for further tropical development.

Want next-level safety, ad-free? Unlock advanced, hyperlocal severe weather alerts when you subscribe to Premium+ on the AccuWeather app. AccuWeather Alerts™ are prompted by our expert meteorologists who monitor and analyze dangerous weather risks 24/7 to keep you and your family safer.

Report a Typo