Potential Formation of Tropical Depression in the Atlantic Next Week: What We Know

A new disturbance has formed in the Atlantic Ocean that meteorologists say could develop into a tropical depression by the middle of next week. On Friday, the National Hurricane Center identified a tropical wave several hundred miles west-southwest of the Cape Verde Islands that is producing showers and thunderstorms over the Atlantic Ocean. Meteorologists say the system will develop slowly over the next few days as it moves westward across the ocean.

Could the new disturbance become a tropical storm?

Meteorologists say there is a 60% chance that the disturbance will develop into a tropical depression in the next seven days. The system is expected to reach the Greater Antilles by midweek.

Can we still expect a busier than average hurricane season?

The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season is still expected to be one of the busiest on record, the National Hurricane Center reported Wednesday. In its mid-season update, the agency said weather forecasters are still expecting 17 to 24 named storms, eight to thirteen hurricanes, and four to seven major hurricanes with winds of 111 mph (178 km/h) or greater. These are totals for the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30. There have been four named storms so far, and the next named storm is expected to be Ernesto. Meteorologists say the Atlantic hurricane season peaks in September, when North Carolina has seen some of the most destructive storms, including Floyd, Fran, and Florence.

Are we done with Debby?

Showers and thunderstorms are possible across much of North Carolina on Friday as the remnants of Hurricane Debby move north. Raleigh is forecast for mostly sunny skies with a high of 90 degrees on Saturday. Emergency planners continue to watch for river flooding as river basins empty and water levels rise downstream. According to data in NC FIMAN, the Flood Inundation Mapping and Alert Network, some rivers in eastern and southeastern North Carolina are expected to peak Friday or over the weekend. The Neuse, Cape Fear, Lumber, Haw, and Black rivers are all expected to experience major flooding as a result of Debby’s heavy rains. A flood warning is in effect through Friday afternoon for parts of the southern and eastern Piedmont, Sandhills, and central Coastal Plain in North Carolina. Most shelters opened to provide safe, dry places for residents during Tropical Storm Debby will close on Friday.

In conclusion, the Atlantic Ocean is currently experiencing a new disturbance that could potentially develop into a tropical depression in the coming days. With the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season expected to be one of the busiest on record, it is crucial for residents in hurricane-prone areas to stay informed and prepared for any potential storms. As the remnants of Hurricane Debby continue to impact North Carolina, emergency planners are closely monitoring river levels and potential flooding. Stay tuned for updates from meteorologists and emergency officials as the hurricane season progresses.