MIAMI — While the Atlantic basin remains active, — only one system is worth watching — Tropical Depression Eighteen which is forecast to become a hurricane this weekend.
New this morning, Peter and Rose have both weakened to tropical depression status in the Atlantic basin. These storms are not likely to re-strengthen over the next few days and will likely dissipate by the weekend.
Elsewhere, the remnants of Odette have increased in the chance of development as it moves over some warmer waters in the north central Atlantic. If this system does redevelop, it will like develop as a subtropical system – meaning it has characteristics of a tropical and non-tropical system. It would retain the name Odette, but it’s unlikely to impact any land areas.
Meanwhile, the biggest area we need to watch remains south and west of the Cape Verde Islands. This wave, known as Invest 98L, became Tropical Depression Eighteen this afternoon. It has been producing consistent shower and storm activity through the overnight hours.
The storm is in a very favorable area with upper level high pressure allowing this system to breath easily. It’s not encountering any shear either and will be moving over very warm waters over the next few days. However, the system is moving at an unusually slow pace – west at 10 to 15 mph.
Typically systems in this part of the Atlantic race west around 20 mph. However due to its slower forward speed, it’s possible this will allow the system to form a bit quicker, as it won’t be sheared due to its fast movement.