Will Tropical Storm Andrea impact Pensacola?

The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season got its first named storm this morning with the formation of Tropical Storm Andrea, but residents along the Gulf Coast can breathe easy—this one’s staying far from land.

According to Escambia County Meteorologist Scottlin Wilson, who discussed the storm on my podcast today, Andrea formed in the northern Atlantic after days of careful monitoring.
The system had been given a 70% chance of development, battling wind shear before finally organizing enough to earn tropical storm status from the National Hurricane Center.

A Short-Lived “Fish Storm”

The good news for coastal communities is that Andrea represents what meteorologists call a “fish storm”—one that remains over open ocean without threatening land. The system is already moving into colder Atlantic waters and is expected to dissipate within 24 hours, never posing a threat to any coastline.

While Andrea marks an early start to the season, it’s not record-breaking. However, it serves as an important reminder that hurricane season is officially underway, with peak activity typically occurring from late August through October.

Preparing for an Active Season Ahead

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has forecast another above-normal hurricane season for 2025. Their predictions call for 13-19 total named storms, with 6-10 becoming hurricanes and 3-5 reaching major hurricane status (Category 3 or stronger). There’s only a 30% chance of a near-normal season.

Wilson emphasized that now is the ideal time for residents to prepare their disaster supplies, before any storms threaten the Gulf Coast. Emergency management officials have updated their preparedness guidelines from the traditional “first 72 hours on you” to “one week ready,” recommending seven days’ worth of food and water supplies.

That means storing one gallon of water per person per day for seven days—a substantial amount that’s easier to accumulate gradually rather than all at once during storm threats.

Local Expertise Makes a Difference

Escambia County’s investment in dedicated meteorological expertise has proven valuable for residents. Wilson and her emergency management team regularly deploy to assist other Florida counties during major storms, gaining crucial experience that benefits their home community.

Since Hurricane Sally in 2020, Escambia County hasn’t faced a major hurricane directly, but the team has supported response efforts for Hurricanes Debbie, Helene, and Milton in other parts of the state.

While Andrea poses no threat, its formation officially kicks off what’s expected to be another busy hurricane season. Now is the time to prepare—before the next storm develops in more dangerous waters.