Forecasters give the system a 40% chance of development, but Saharan dust and dry air could hinder its progress.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is keeping a close eye on a tropical wave that has emerged off the west coast of Africa, marking a new area of interest during the climatological peak of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season.
While formation chances are currently low, the NHC has indicated that a tropical depression could form by the early to middle part of next week.
READ: Florida Manatees In Peril: Septic Tank Showdown Reaches Federal Court
The tropical wave is producing disorganized showers and thunderstorms, and environmental conditions appear to be conducive for some gradual development. The system is expected to move west-northward at approximately 15 mph across the eastern and central tropical Atlantic.
Forecasters, however, note that the system will soon encounter Saharan dust and dry air, which could limit its chances for significant development. As a result, the NHC has given the system a zero percent chance of formation over the next two days, but a 40% chance over the next seven days.
READ: Florida Panther Conservation Program Secures Key Habitat, Rewards Landowners
The development of this system comes after a relatively quiet period in the Atlantic basin, despite the official peak of hurricane season on September 10. The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 through November 30, has already seen several named storms, including the long-lived Category 5 Hurricane Erin.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
