ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — As storm forecasters have grown more certain over the years about the potential path a hurricane will take, the popular “cone of uncertainty” used in models has grown smaller. But widespread misunderstanding of the cone has prompted forecasters to try to improve the tool.

The Tampa Bay Times reports as storm forecasters have grown more certain over the years about the potential path a hurricane will take, the popular “cone of uncertainty” used in models has grown smaller.

But widespread misunderstanding of the cone has prompted forecasters to try to improve the tool.

This year the National Hurricane Center will use a modified tool with a sleeker tracking cone.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join our Newsletter for the latest news right to your inbox