Ocean temperatures are at near-record highs, which could allow storms to rapidly intensify if they enter the Gulf.

The National Hurricane Center currently is tracking two tropical waves in the Atlantic basin, which covers the northern Atlantic, Gulf and Caribbean. ➤ September hurricane season forecast: Savor the break, but trouble is brewing in back half

Many notable hurricanes have ravaged the US coast over the decades, even as this year's peak hurricane week remains rather tranquil in the Atlantic tropics.