National Hurricane Center Forecast: Potential Tropical Depression in the Gulf This Week

The National Hurricane Center reports that a tropical depression may form in the western Caribbean mid-week, with a 50% chance of it developing into a storm by week’s end. Other systems, including Hurricane Isaac and Tropical Storm Joyce, are being monitored, while NOAA forecasts an active hurricane season with up to 25 named storms this year.

In the wake of Hurricane Helene’s recent impact on the Southeast, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) has advised the U.S. Gulf Coast and the Caribbean to remain vigilant for a developing weather system this coming week. According to a Sunday morning update, a tropical depression may form in the western Caribbean Sea by mid-week, subsequently moving into the Gulf of Mexico later on. The NHC estimates a 50% probability for this system to develop into a tropical depression or storm within the next seven days. Should it materialize, it is likely to be designated as ‘Kirk’ or ‘Leslie,’ the subsequent names in the 2024 storm naming list. Additionally, the NHC is observing Hurricane Isaac, currently positioned several hundred miles away from the Azores in the North Atlantic Ocean, categorized as a Category 1 hurricane with sustained winds reaching approximately 80 mph. Furthermore, Tropical Storm Joyce, situated roughly 1,000 miles east of the Northern Leeward Islands, is anticipated to evolve into a tropical storm by Monday. Neither Joyce nor Isaac is expected to make landfall in the U.S. In the eastern Atlantic, another low-pressure area near Cabo Verde shows an 80% likelihood of development over the coming week, with a 60% chance within the next two days. Forecasters are also monitoring a tropical wave near the west coast of Africa, which has a low chance of forming as it progresses westward over the next week. This year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has forecasted between 17 to 25 named storms for the 2024 season, marking the most severe storm season prediction ever issued for the Atlantic Basin. Following an atypical lull in tropical cyclone activity during the mid-season, experts have cautioned that a surge in activity is anticipated as the season approaches its conclusion on November 30.

The article discusses the latest weather forecasts related to potential tropical storm activity in the Gulf of Mexico, specifically highlighting the predictions made by the National Hurricane Center (NHC). It outlines the possible development of a tropical depression and other systems currently being monitored, including Hurricane Isaac and Tropical Storm Joyce, as well as significant atmospheric conditions that could influence storm formation. Furthermore, it places these developments within the broader context of the 2024 hurricane season, which has been predicted to be particularly active based on NOAA forecasts.

In summary, there are significant weather developments being monitored by the National Hurricane Center this week, including a potential tropical depression forming in the Gulf of Mexico. The probability of this system developing stands at 50%, with names already designated should it intensify. Meanwhile, Hurricane Isaac and Tropical Storm Joyce are also active, indicating a turbulent hurricane season that is predicted to continue its activity into the fall. As the season comes to a close on November 30, residents are encouraged to stay informed through updates and safety advisories.

Original Source: www.nola.com