BTW - Chantal | Main | Tropical Depression in Caribbean less likely
August 2, 2007
Possible system forming
The NHC is still acting like this isn't going to turn into much - but the latest update does make it sound like it has become a bit more organized:
...SPECIAL FEATURES...
A TROPICAL WAVE AND AN AREA OF LOW PRES IN THE E CARIB IS MOVING
WWD NEAR 20 KT. A SATELLITE LOOP BEGINNING AT 00Z TODAY SHOWS
CONVECTION SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASING IN BOTH COVERAGE AND
MAGNITUDE...ALTHOUGH CLOUD TOPS HAVE WARMED A BIT OVER THE PAST
HOUR OR TWO. CURRENTLY...SCATTERED TO NUMEROUS MODERATE
CONVECTION IS FROM 13N-17N BETWEEN 64W-70W. WHILE CONVECTION IS
IMPRESSIVE IT REMAINS CHALLENGING TO FIND THE LOW-LEVEL CENTER.
THIS SYSTEM CONTINUES TO HAVE SOME POTENTIAL TO BECOME A
TROPICAL CYCLONE DURING THE NEXT DAY OR SO. AN AIR FORCE RESERVE
HURRICANE HUNTER AIRCRAFT IS CURRENTLY ENROUTE TO INVESTIGATE
THE SYSTEM.
It certainly looks like something in the latest images - but the upper level winds seem to be creating a shearing effect that could hamper development.
If it does develop, it may impact the western half of the Caribbean islands, especially Jamaica and Cuba. Keep an eye on this one if you have travel plans to the region - and don't forget about travel insurance!
