A tropical wave in the central Atlantic now has a high chance of developing as it moves generally westward toward the Caribbean.
As of 2 p.m. Tuesday, August 11, the National Hurricane Center placed the system about 550 miles southwest of the Cabo Verde Islands. Although its showers and thunderstorms remain disorganized, conditions are expected to become increasingly favorable, and a tropical depression will likely form during the second half of this week.
The NHC currently gives the system a 40% chance of formation within 48 hours and a 70% chance within seven days.
AccuWeather says development is most likely between Wednesday and Friday. The system could approach the Leeward Islands late this weekend or early next week, but its eventual strength and track remain highly uncertain. A weaker system could move through the islands with heavy showers, gusty winds and rough seas, while a faster-strengthening storm may be more likely to curve north.
A second area northeast of Bermuda has only a 20% chance of developing and is expected to encounter cooler water by Thursday.
There is no immediate cause for alarm, but residents, cruisers and marine interests across the Leeward Islands, Puerto Rico and the north-central Caribbean should monitor forecasts closely over the coming days.
Follow the latest updates:
