NHC Tracks Tropical Storm Erin & Two Other Atlantic Systems, Florida Faces Heavy Rain Threat

NASA

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is actively monitoring three distinct weather systems in the Atlantic basin, including newly-formed Tropical Storm Erin, with implications for coastal areas and shipping lanes.

1. Tropical Storm Erin Strengthening:

• The system previously known as Invest 97-L was officially upgraded to Tropical Storm Erin on Monday.
• As of the latest NHC advisory (5 a.m. EDT Tuesday), no coastal watches or warnings are in effect.
• Forecasters predict Erin will continue strengthening over the open Atlantic and could become a strong hurricane by this weekend. It currently poses no immediate threat to land.

2. Gulf of Mexico Disturbance (Heavy Rain Focus):

• A weak area of low pressure (surface trough) is located in the northeastern Gulf of Mexico, near the Florida Panhandle.
• It's producing disorganized showers and thunderstorms over a broad area.
• Development into a tropical depression or storm is NOT expected before the system moves inland over the southeastern US.
• Primary Threat: Locally heavy rainfall. This could lead to flash flooding across parts of the Florida Panhandle over the next day or two. Residents should monitor local weather alerts.
• Formation Chance: 0% through 48 hours and 0% through 7 days.

3. North Atlantic Low (Near Canada):

• The NHC is also tracking a non-tropical low-pressure system located several hundred miles east-southeast of Atlantic Canada.
• Some slight subtropical or tropical development is possible over the next few days as it drifts over marginally warmer waters.
• However, the system is expected to move into a region of much cooler water and stronger upper-level winds later this week, effectively ending any chance of significant development.
• Formation Chance: 10% through 48 hours and 10% through 7 days.

2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season:

The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from June 1st to November 30th. This activity serves as a reminder for coastal residents to ensure they have their hurricane plans in place. Stay informed through reliable sources like the National Hurricane Center and local news outlets (e.g., WESH 2 for Central Florida forecasts) for the latest updates on any developing threats.