Hurricane center tracks growing Caribbean system that could threaten Florida next week

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is closely monitoring a developing weather system in the southwestern Caribbean that may evolve into the next tropical depression or storm, possibly threatening Florida next week. The NHC's latest forecast indicates a 90% chance of this system developing in the coming days, prompting the potential issuance of tropical storm watches or warnings. Heavy rainfall is expected across the western Caribbean, affecting Jamaica, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba, regardless of whether the system strengthens. Meteorologists emphasize that interests in the region should remain vigilant as the situation evolves. An Air Force Hurricane Hunter aircraft is scheduled to investigate the system, providing vital data for the NHC's forecasts.

Meanwhile, Subtropical Storm Patty continues to move in the far eastern Atlantic toward Spain. Long-range models suggest the Caribbean system could move into the Gulf of Mexico midweek, but uncertainty remains high. Florida residents should prepare for potential impacts as development progresses.