An area of low pressure in the Atlantic Ocean has developed into the season's second Tropical Depression on Friday and poses a threat of becoming a hurricane near Cuba. This system currently exhibits maximum sustained winds of 34 mph, with higher gusts, and a minimum central pressure of 1007 hectoPascals, according to the Institute of Meteorology of Cuba (Insmet).
According to a recent update, at 5 PM, the depression's center was located at 9.1 degrees north latitude and 41.9 degrees west longitude, approximately 1,224 miles east-southeast of Barbados, the easternmost island of the Lesser Antilles. The depression is moving westward at a speed of 21 mph.
Over the next 12 to 24 hours, Tropical Depression Two is expected to continue moving west-northwest, gaining organization and intensity. It is likely to become Tropical Storm Beryl tonight or Saturday and potentially develop into a hurricane by Sunday, before reaching the Lesser Antilles' eastern boundary of the Caribbean Sea, potentially as a Category 2 or 3.
Given its projected path and development, close monitoring of this tropical cyclone is ongoing. The system is expected to strengthen and become a hurricane as it approaches the Windward Islands late Sunday or Monday. Hurricane and tropical storm warnings are likely to be issued for parts of the Windward and southern Leeward Islands later tonight or on Saturday, the report indicates.
The next advisory on this system will be issued in Cuba at 6 PM on Saturday. Meanwhile, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) in the United States stated that weather updates will be provided to keep the population informed.
The Miami-based entity previously reported that the tropical wave located approximately 1,400 miles east-southeast of the Windward Islands had a 100% probability of becoming a hurricane in the coming days.
Both American and Cuban meteorologists have predicted that the current hurricane season will be the most active in the past 40 years.
Tropical Depression Near Cuba: Key Questions Answered
In light of the recent formation of Tropical Depression Two and its potential to become a hurricane, here are some important questions and answers to help you stay informed.
What is the current status of Tropical Depression Two?
Tropical Depression Two exhibits maximum sustained winds of 34 mph and a minimum central pressure of 1007 hectoPascals. It is moving westward at 21 mph and is expected to strengthen.
When is it expected to become a Tropical Storm or Hurricane?
The system is likely to become Tropical Storm Beryl tonight or Saturday and could develop into a hurricane by Sunday.
Which areas are under threat from this system?
The Windward and southern Leeward Islands are expected to be under threat, with potential hurricane and tropical storm warnings issued later tonight or on Saturday.