Tropical system in the Caribbean close to becoming a tropical depression

Chances of another late-season tropical low are now up to 90% over the western Caribbean Sea. A tropical depression is likely to form over the next day or two, and further strengthening into Tropical Storm Sara over the weekend is possible.

Sara is likely to form on Thursday or Friday. When Sara forms, a cold front and blocking high-pressure system will keep it in the western Caribbean Sea through the weekend. Sara could strengthen into a hurricane if it stays over open water. High pressure eventually slides far enough east to let Sara escape northward into the Gulf of Mexico where it could strengthen early next week. Storm systems and fronts keep the US protected from tropical systems this late in the season, but areas from Texas to Florida (especially South Florida) should monitor this system closely as we head into next week.

For continuous updates on the 2024 hurricane season, download the free WITN First Alert Weather App, available in both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. It’s the fastest way to get the latest advisories, track storms in real-time, and receive any warnings issued for your area.