By Samantha Simon
The National Hurricane Center in Miami is monitoring two areas of disturbed weather in the Atlantic basin that have the potential to develop into tropical cyclones later this week.
While neither system currently poses any immediate threat to Antigua and Barbuda, residents are advised to stay informed on their progress in the coming days.
The disturbance of most interest to the islands is an area of low pressure located over the central tropical Atlantic currently labeled AL92.
This system has a 60 percent chance of developing into a tropical depression within 48 hours, and a 70 percent chance through the next seven days as it meanders over the open Atlantic.
Forecast models indicate that AL92 could begin tracking more westward towards the Caribbean by the middle of the week.
A second disturbance, a trough of low pressure located southwest of the Cabo Verde Islands, has a 50% chance of gradual development by the end of the seven-day forecast period.
This system is further away from the Leeward Islands but could begin a slow west-northwest track later in the week.
With the peak of the hurricane season underway, residents of Antigua and Barbuda are urged to stay vigilant and monitor the National Hurricane Center and Antigua Barbuda Met Office for the latest information on these developing systems.
While no immediate watches or warnings are in effect, conditions can change quickly during this time of year and residents should review their hurricane preparedness plans as a precaution.
