The National Hurricane Center is continuing to track a tropical wave in the Atlantic that could develop into Tropical Storm Debby this weekend.
Tropical depression could form this weekend
The NHC indicated that while development of the current system might be unlikely during its west-northwest path over the Greater Antilles, conditions could become favorable for development afterwards. A tropical depression might form in the eastern Gulf of Mexico or southwestern Atlantic.
Bottom line: Be prepared
Though an organized storm has not appeared yet, residents from Louisiana to Florida's west coast have been advised to stay prepared for a rapid intensification of the storm, which could lead to significant flooding.
Invest 97L spaghetti models
Forecasting efforts include multiple models to predict the path of Invest 97L toward Florida, closely watched for its potential intensification into Tropical Storm Debby.
What needs to happen for Invest 97L to become Tropical Storm Debby?
If the winds of Invest 97L reach 39 mph, it will be classified as Tropical Storm Debby, marking it as the fourth named storm for what is anticipated to be a busy hurricane season.