TAMPA, Fla. — The National Hurricane Center says Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine has formed in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to become the season's next named depression or storm.
The NHC issued a cone Monday showing where forecast models expect the system to move. PTC 9 is expected to strengthen over the next few days. If it reaches 39 mph, it'll become a tropical storm and get the name Helene.
Tropical storm warnings and hurricane watches have been issued for parts of Mexico and Cuba. By Wednesday, it's expected to become a hurricane.
While there is still some uncertainty, models are in better agreement that the system will strengthen while moving northward over the Gulf of Mexico. Although it is too soon to specify the exact location and magnitude, areas along the Florida Gulf Coast should prepare for potential impacts from storm surge, heavy rainfall and strong wind.
Now is the time to make sure your hurricane kit is ready and up to date.
10 Tampa Bay is also monitoring a wave off the west coast of Africa for possible development. This tropical wave is bringing no threat to land or Florida at this time.
What is a Potential Tropical Cyclone?
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, a Potential Tropical Cyclone is what forecasters use to describe "a disturbance that is not yet a tropical cyclone, BUT poses the threat of bringing tropical storm or hurricane conditions to land areas within 48 hours."
If you're not familiar with the term, it may be because it wasn't something forecasters had until 2017. Before the term was implemented, NHC meteorologists weren't allowed to issue a hurricane or tropical storm watch or warning until after a tropical cyclone had formed.
Thanks to advances in forecasting technology, meteorologists now have a more accurate idea about how a tropical cyclone will impact land and can make predictions while the systems are still in the developmental stage.
We will continue to provide the latest information through your 10 Tampa Bay hurricane headquarters.