The correct answer for this question is option 4, which states that all three statements are correct. Let`s dissect each option to understand why this is the correct answer.

Option 1 states that hurricanes develop over the ocean between 8°-15° N. This statement is correct because hurricanes require warm ocean waters to develop, and these temperatures are typically found within this latitude range. They form in the tropical latitudes.

Option 2 states that hurricanes are almost absent in the South Atlantic Ocean. This statement is also correct. The South Atlantic Ocean does not typically experience the necessary conditions for hurricane formation. The lack of warm sea surface temperatures and other atmospheric conditions specific to the formation of hurricanes make them rare in this region.

Option 3 states that hurricanes do not develop close to the equator. This statement is correct because hurricanes require the Coriolis effect (caused by the rotation of the Earth) to help initiate and sustain their rotation. The Coriolis effect is weaker near the equator, making hurricane formation less likely.

All three statements are correct, making option 4 the correct answer.