The hurricane season remains highly active in the Atlantic Ocean, and the National Hurricane Center (NHC) of the United States has raised the probability to 60 percent for a developing tropical wave to become a tropical depression in the coming days.
According to the latest report from the NHC, the weather system is currently located over the eastern tropical Atlantic, producing a broad area of disorganized showers and thunderstorms. The likelihood of this tropical wave turning into a tropical depression has increased to 60% over the next seven days, up from 40% reported yesterday. In the next 48 hours, the formation probability remains low, close to 0%.
Potential Impact on the Caribbean
The NHC anticipates that the tropical wave will move towards the west-northwest, approaching the Lesser Antilles early next week, and could continue its path towards the Greater Antilles around midweek, potentially impacting the Caribbean and Cuba. Conditions for the system's development are expected to improve as it progresses west-northwest, according to the U.S. agency.
On Thursday, Cuban meteorologist Raydel Ruisanchez advised residents in the Caribbean, particularly in the Lesser Antilles, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic, to stay vigilant regarding the evolution of this system.
This potential tropical depression adds to the concerns raised by the recent passage of Post-Tropical Storm Debby, which caused significant damage in the United States, including four fatalities in Florida.
The 2024 hurricane season continues to show signs of intense activity, with the Caribbean in the crosshairs of new meteorological threats. This Friday, the NOAA stated that the peak of the season is just around the corner—from late August to late September—and that up to 13 hurricanes could occur from June 1 to November 30.
FAQs about Tropical Depression Formation in the Caribbean
With the increased probability of tropical depression formation, here are some frequently asked questions to help you stay informed and prepared.
What is the current probability of the tropical wave developing into a tropical depression?
The current probability of the tropical wave developing into a tropical depression is 60% over the next seven days.
Which areas are expected to be impacted by this potential tropical depression?
The tropical wave is expected to impact the Lesser Antilles early next week and possibly the Greater Antilles, including the Caribbean and Cuba, around midweek.
What precautions should residents in the Caribbean take?
Residents in the Caribbean, particularly in the Lesser Antilles, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic, should stay vigilant and monitor updates on the system's development.