How does a hurricane typically move in the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico?

The typical movement of a hurricane in the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico generally follows a northwestward trajectory, often curving to the northeast as it approaches land or interacts with other weather systems. This directional movement is driven by the prevailing easterly trade winds and the larger steering patterns in the atmosphere, particularly the subtropical high-pressure system known as the Bermuda High.

Once a hurricane forms in the Caribbean or Gulf, it is influenced first by these trade winds, which push it northwestward. As the storm progresses and interacts with the prevailing winds and ocean currents, it may start to recurve towards the northeast, especially if it approaches land or is impacted by other meteorological phenomena. This combination of factors is why the northwest curving to northeast movement is characteristic of hurricanes in this region.

The other provided options do not accurately represent the typical movement of hurricanes. For instance, a direct southward movement contradicts the prevailing atmospheric patterns that generally steer these storms. Similarly, while hurricanes do rotate counterclockwise around their center due to the Coriolis effect, this option does not describe their overall path or trajectory in the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico.