News Summary
A tropical wave near the Cabo Verde Islands could evolve into a tropical depression by midweek, with low chances for immediate development. Current conditions hinder storm formation, but potential exists for the wave to strengthen into Tropical Storm Gabrielle. Meteorologists are closely monitoring the situation, noting that this Atlantic hurricane season has been quiet so far. Uncertainty remains regarding the future path of this system, which could impact Caribbean islands by the upcoming weekend.
New Orleans, Louisiana – A tropical wave currently positioned off the coast of Africa is anticipated to evolve into a tropical depression by midweek, according to reports from meteorological experts. This weather system is located just south of the Cabo Verde Islands and is producing a mix of disorganized showers and thunderstorms, although its potential for development in the immediate term is limited due to the presence of dry and stable air.
The tropical wave is progressing in a west-northwest direction at speeds between 10 to 15 miles per hour across the central tropical Atlantic. Over the next two days, the likelihood of the wave developing into a tropical depression sits at a low 20%; however, predictions indicate a higher chance of 70% for potential development over the span of the following three to seven days.
At present, there are no expected impacts for Southeast Louisiana arising from this tropical wave. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is closely monitoring the situation. Meteorologists have indicated that the current atmospheric conditions, including the presence of Saharan dust, are inhibiting moisture critical for the formation of tropical storms.
Historically, recent weather patterns have been unfavorable for the emergence of tropical systems in the Atlantic. Despite warm ocean temperatures in the Main Development Region, atmospheric conditions have not aligned to facilitate storm formation. The influence of a pool of cooler waters known as an “Atlantic Niña” off the western African coast is also playing a role in limiting hurricane development. Moreover, the Central American Gyre, which has the potential to produce locally heavy rain and enhance tropical cyclone formation, is currently under observation for any signs of development.
If the tropical wave successfully develops into a tropical depression, there is potential for it to strengthen further into Tropical Storm or Hurricane Gabrielle. However, experts have noted uncertainty regarding the storm’s future path, as computer models are presenting mixed forecasts. Some models suggest that the system may turn north into the Atlantic, while others are predicting a trajectory that could direct it towards the northeastern Caribbean Islands. Should the storm impact the islands, it is expected to do so by the upcoming weekend.
This year’s Atlantic hurricane season has been remarkably quiet, with Hurricane Erin being the only storm to reach Category 5 status thus far. Thunderstorm activity across Africa has remained below average, contributing to the current lull in tropical development. With ocean temperatures remaining warm yet failing to generate the necessary atmospheric support for storm systems, the NHC remains vigilant, highlighting the area as one to watch for potential tropical cyclone formation over the next two to three weeks.
In summary, while forecasters are predicting possible development of the tropical wave into a depression, variable weather conditions and mixed model predictions suggest that the situation is fluid, and continued monitoring is essential as the week progresses.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- WDSU: Louisiana Tropics Forecast
- Wikipedia: Tropical Cyclone
- Gulf Coast News Now: Tropics Development
- Google Search: Tropical Wave
- WESH: Florida Tropics Wave
- Google Scholar: Tropical Waves
- The Weather Channel: Tropical Wave Development
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tropical Storms
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
