Potential Tropical Weather Threatening the U.S. Late in the Week

Forecasters with the National Hurricane Center (NHC) are growing increasingly more concerned that the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season is not over yet. Here is a look at what is happening this week in the tropics and if any of these potential impacts will reach the U.S.

More Chances of Tropical Development in the Caribbean

It is looking more likely that a tropical storm may come together in the Caribbean by the start of the new work week. There is also a chance that this development could intensify into a hurricane and make its way toward the U.S.

The Caribbean Sea has been an area of concern for the meteorologists over the last few weeks. The latest signals indicate that a named storm will develop in the next few days with a potential path that would take it toward the Gulf Coast of the U.S. by the end of the week or next weekend.

Even if this blossoming feature does not take on official tropical characteristics, a large part of the Caribbean is going to see widespread rain showers and thunderstorms in the days ahead. Boating interests, residents, and vacationers should all make it a point to stay abreast of this developing situation.

The most likely scenario would see the storm coming together in the western or central portions of the Caribbean Sea. Any development would likely happen between now and Tuesday. Zeroing in further on the location, the zone located near Jamaica is the most likely spot for the action to take root.

The system is now carrying characteristics of a tropical rainstorm. Widespread rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches are in the forecast for Jamaica and Cuba. Western Cuba and the middle portion of Jamaica may see heavier amounts of rain totaling 4 to 8 inches near the track of the storm.

Up to a foot of rain may fall across the higher terrain. This torrential rain will trigger the threat of flash flooding, mudslides, and landslides. Wind gusts of 40 to 60 mph are in the forecast in an area near the center of the storm.

Despite the Atlantic basin entering the last month of its defined seasons, ocean water temperatures in the Caribbean are still warm enough to support the development and growth of tropical weather. In addition to the warm sea surface readings, the disruptive breezes known as wind shear are trending lower. These factors will help to provide a fertile breeding ground for tropical weather across the center and western portions of the Caribbean.

Will the U.S. See Any Impacts?