Tropical Depression 17 forms in the central Atlantic; 4 other disturbances to watch

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The 11 p.m. National Hurricane Center update now has Tropical Depression Seventeen in the central Atlantic. Maximum sustained winds are at 35 MPH with higher gusts. Slow strengthening is forecast during the next 48 hours, and the depression is forecast to become Tropical Storm Paulette on Monday.

We’re almost to the peak of hurricane season, and right on cue, we’re watching 4 disturbances in the tropics. Three are in the Atlantic, while one is in the Caribbean.

Behind Tropical Depression Seventeen, another vigorous tropical wave, titled 93L, has moved off the west African Coast. A tropical depression is likely to form by the middle of next week as it pushes westward across the eastern tropical Atlantic. Right now, the National Hurricane Center is giving it a high 90% chance of development over the next 5 days.

Just south of Invest 93L, there is a third wave that has the potential to form over the next 5 days. It has a 20% of development.

 

Computer models are bullish on development of these two waves, and while it’s too early to know if they will affect land, it’s worth mentioning models signal that steering currents will favor a path out to sea. Either way, both disturbances are 3000-4000 miles away from the United States, so plenty of time to watch!

Another tropical wave in the central Caribbean has flared up over the past day or so. Conditions are unfavorable for slow development over the next couple of days, however, once it reaches the western Caribbean midweek, upper level winds will become hostile, likely halting any organization. The National Hurricane Center gives this disturbance a 0% chance of development over the next 5 days.

Yet another area of disturbed weather has developed just south of Bermuda. Conditions will be somewhat favorable for slow development as it slides west-northwest over the next several days. This may produce impacts along the Carolina coastlines. The National Hurricane Center gives this disturbance a low 30% chance of development within the next 5 days.

Next names are PAULETTE, RENE, and SALLY. By the way, only six more names left until the Greek Alphabet! The only time that ever happened was the historic 2005 Atlantic Hurricane Season.

Stay tuned at WINK for the latest on the tropics!

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