New tropical depression in Caribbean Sea forecasted to be a hurricane next week

New tropical depression in Caribbean Sea forecasted to be a hurricane next week

New system is not expected to impact The Bahamas

NASSAU, BAHAMAS — As Tropical Storm Theta is expected to weaken over the weekend, a new system has formed in the Central Caribbean Sea.

The tropical depression is expected to strengthen and approach Central America as a hurricane early next week.

It is forecasted to develop into a tropical storm by tomorrow and make its way through the Honduras and Nicaragua areas.

Chief Meteorological Officer Arnold King said the system is not expected to impact The Bahamas or bring adverse weather.

Currently, Theta poses no threat to land areas, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC).

The weather forecast body advised last night that there are no coastal watches or warnings in effect with regard to the system.

Additionally, little change in strength is forecast during the next 24 hours.

The tropical storm is moving toward the east near 12 mph and is forecast to gradually turn toward the east-southeast and slow its forward speed by tonight.

A continued slow east-southeastward motion is then expected through the end of the week.

The NHC advised that maximum sustained winds have decreased to near 60 mph (95 km/h) with higher gusts.

“Weakening is expected over the weekend, and Theta is forecast to become a remnant low by Sunday.”

Meanwhile, the center of Tropical Storm Eta is just off South Carolina.

The storm is currently pouring heavy rains and gusty winds across portions of the Carolinas.

The system blustered through Florida, triggering flash flooding, road closures and the need for multiple water rescues.

About Sloan Smith

Sloan Smith is a senior digital reporter at Eyewitness News, covering a diverse range of beats, from politics and crime to environment and human interest. In 2018, Sloan received a nomination for the “Leslie Higgs Feature Writer of The Year Award” from The Bahamas Press Club for her work with Eyewitness News.