The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued a warning about the potential development of a tropical depression in the Caribbean, likely to emerge near Eastern Cuba. Although this weather system is currently evolving and poses no immediate threat to Cuba, there is growing concern on the island about the possibility of it organizing and moving towards areas already devastated by the recent passage of Hurricane Oscar.
In a recent tweet, the NHC indicated, "A broad low-pressure area is expected to form over the Caribbean in the coming days, with the potential to develop into a tropical depression by the end of this week or the weekend. This system does not pose a threat to the U.S. mainland within the next seven days. Those with interests in the Caribbean Sea should monitor its progress."
Meanwhile, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has reported that the detected system is beginning to shift north or northeast, across the southwest and central Caribbean Sea. As of the time of writing, the system is situated in the southern Caribbean, bordered by Venezuela, Colombia, Panama, Jamaica, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic. Should it move north as anticipated, it could become a threat to the eastern region of Cuba.
Forecasts for an Active Hurricane Season
Earlier this year, in June, meteorologists from Colorado State University (CSU), known for their pioneering work in seasonal hurricane forecasts, released their predictions for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season. They forecasted an "extremely active" season, with expectations of 23 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and five major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher. This outlook significantly surpasses the 30-year average, which typically sees 14 named storms, seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes in the Atlantic, as detailed in their comprehensive 44-page report.
Just a week ago, Cuba was battered by Hurricane Oscar, which resulted in a preliminary toll of seven fatalities in Guantánamo province and extensive material damage. Around the same time, Hurricane Helene struck the state of Florida in the United States.