Tropical Development Likely in Central Caribbean as Hurricane Season Draws to a Close

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is currently tracking a tropical wave in the central Caribbean, designated as Invest 99L. This disturbance is producing widespread but disorganized showers and thunderstorms, and forecasters are keeping a close watch on its progression. According to the NHC, Invest 99L has a high likelihood of developing into a more organized tropical system over the next seven days. As the tropical wave drifts towards the southwestern Caribbean near Nicaragua, it is expected to enter an area with favorable conditions for tropical development. By the end of the week, it could strengthen into a tropical depression, with potential impacts for areas in Central America.

Hurricane Hunters to Gather Critical Data

In anticipation of the system’s potential development, Hurricane Hunter aircraft are scheduled to fly into the area on Wednesday. Their mission is to gather data that will help meteorologists refine forecasts for the storm’s track and intensity. These reconnaissance flights are crucial for providing real-time data, including wind speed, pressure, and storm organization, all of which aid in more accurate forecasting. Should Invest 99L organize into a named storm, it would be the 18th storm of this hurricane season and would be named “Sara.” The exact track of the system is uncertain, as models show differing outcomes. Some forecast paths bring it into the Gulf of Mexico early next week, while others suggest it may stay away from the United States.

Potential Impacts and Hurricane Season Outlook

As the week progresses, residents of Central America should be prepared for possible impacts, including heavy rain and strong winds. If the storm intensifies further, parts of Nicaragua and nearby regions may experience significant rainfall and flooding by the weekend. The NHC urges residents in the storm’s potential path to remain vigilant and monitor official updates.

With hurricane season nearing its official end on November 30, the Caribbean remains vulnerable to late-season storm activity. Meteorologists will continue to analyze Invest 99L’s development, providing updates on NBC6.com and the NBC6 app as the situation unfolds.

As hurricane season enters its final weeks, it’s a reminder that even late-season storms can bring powerful winds, rain, and high surf to affected areas.