Florida Cyclone Update As Chances of Dangerous Storm Increase
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
The likelihood of Tropical Storm Chantal forming near Florida in the next seven days has risen again, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC).
Why It Matters
The weather system would be the third named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season if it forms.
It would follow Tropical Storms Andrea and Barry, which formed last week. While Andrea formed over the open ocean, Barry made landfall on Mexico's east coast.
What To Know
Newsweek reported on Tuesday that the NHC gave the disturbance a 30-percent chance of forming in the next seven days, a slight upgrade from the 20-percent chance given on Monday.
An NHC map highlights the area meteorologists are watching for potential tropical system development.
An NHC map highlights the area meteorologists are watching for potential tropical system development.
National Hurricane Center
In its most recent Atlantic tropical weather outlook, issued early on Wednesday, the NHC noted there was now a "medium," 40-percent chance of development over the course of the next week.
"An area of low pressure could develop near the southeast U.S. Atlantic or Gulf Coasts by this weekend along a weakening frontal boundary," the NHC said.
"Environmental conditions appear only marginally conducive for some slow development, but a tropical or subtropical depression could form in this region over the weekend or early next week while the system moves little."
Heavy rainfall remains possible over parts of the southeastern U.S., especially along the west-central coast of Florida, regardless of development, the NHC added.
AccuWeather lead hurricane expert Alex DaSilva told Newsweek previously that rain is expected to dampen Fourth of July celebrations across Florida.
While it is not likely to rapidly intensify or reach hurricane strength, ocean temperatures are warm enough to allow for tropical development, DaSilva noted.
What People Are Saying
The National Hurricane Center said on X, formerly Twitter, on Tuesday: "July 1, 8 a.m. EDT: We continue to monitor the potential for tropical or subtropical development over the northeast Gulf and southeast U.S coast which has a low (30-percent) chance of development later this week. Stay up to date with the latest information at http://hurricanes.gov."
Meteorologist Ken South said on X, Tuesday: "Chances are increasing that a tropical system will develop in the NE Gulf near Florida in the next few days. There is now a 40-percent, medium chance of development. The next name on the Atlantic list this year is 'Chantal.'"
What Happens Next
The NHC will continue to deliver updates on the disturbance.
The Atlantic hurricane season spans from June through November. Meanwhile, the Eastern Pacific hurricane season began on May 15 and runs through November 30.
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