The National Hurricane Center (NHC) announced this Wednesday the formation of the seventh tropical depression in the Atlantic. The system is located near latitude 16.0 North and longitude 28.7 West, east of the Cape Verde Islands.
According to the report, the depression is moving west-northwest at roughly 18 mph (30 km/h) and is expected to continue this trajectory in the coming days, albeit at a slightly slower pace. Current maximum sustained winds are 35 mph (55 km/h), with stronger gusts, and the depression could intensify over the next 48 hours.
In fact, the NHC anticipates that the system could become a tropical storm tonight or on Thursday. The estimated minimum central pressure stands at 1007 mb (29.74 inches). The NHC will continue to monitor the evolution of this system as it progresses through the Atlantic.
Additionally, the NHC warned that Hurricane Francine, the fourth of the current hurricane season, is approaching the Louisiana coast with sustained winds of 90 mph (150 km/h). Francine is currently a category 1 hurricane and is nearing landfall. This powerful hurricane has prompted storm surge warnings for much of the southern United States.
NOAA Adjusts Hurricane Season Forecast
Amid the peak of what is the most active hurricane season in the Atlantic in the past 30 years, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has adjusted its forecast. The new report confirms that up to 13 cyclones could form this season.
The revised forecast reflects a slight but significant adjustment, predicting between 17 to 24 named storms (winds of 39 mph or greater) and between 8 to 13 hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or greater).
Frequently Asked Questions About the Atlantic's Seventh Tropical Depression
As the seventh tropical depression forms in the Atlantic, many people have questions about its potential impact, trajectory, and the overall hurricane season. Here are some common questions and answers to help you stay informed.
Where is the seventh tropical depression currently located?
The depression is located near latitude 16.0 North and longitude 28.7 West, east of the Cape Verde Islands.
What is the expected trajectory of this tropical depression?
The depression is moving west-northwest at approximately 18 mph (30 km/h) and is expected to continue this path in the coming days, although at a slightly slower speed.
Could this tropical depression become a storm?
Yes, the NHC anticipates that the system could intensify and become a tropical storm tonight or on Thursday.
How has NOAA adjusted its hurricane season forecast?
NOAA has adjusted its forecast to predict between 17 to 24 named storms and between 8 to 13 hurricanes for this season.