ORLANDO, Fla. – The National Hurricane Center is closely monitoring Tropical Storm Kirk as it continues to linger in the Atlantic Ocean, located 935 miles west of the Cabo Verde Islands. With maximum sustained winds of 70 mph and a minimum central pressure of 988 mb, Kirk is currently moving west-northwest at 13 mph and is expected to intensify over the next few days.
Throughout Tuesday, Kirk is forecasted to strengthen as it travels through the Atlantic, potentially reaching hurricane status by Tuesday night and becoming a major hurricane by Thursday. While Kirk’s west-northwest movement is expected to persist today, the NHC anticipates a gradual turn to the northwest by Wednesday, with no significant impact on land expected at this time.
In addition to monitoring Kirk, the National Hurricane Center is also keeping a close eye on various disturbances across the Atlantic and Caribbean. Invest 91-L, located near the coast of Africa, shows signs of organization and is likely to develop into the next named storm of the 2024 hurricane season. Environmental conditions are conducive for further development, with a high chance of a tropical depression forming within the next day or two.
Another area of low pressure in the Caribbean Sea is being monitored for possible depression formation before moving into the Gulf of Mexico. Residents along the United States Gulf Coast, including Florida, are advised to monitor this system closely for any developments. Meanwhile, Joyce, which weakened from tropical storm status, has dissipated over the Central Atlantic, posing no hazards to land at this time.
As the 2024 hurricane season progresses, the NHC continues to provide updates and advisories to ensure the safety and preparedness of residents in affected regions. Stay informed with the latest weather forecasts and alerts from the First Warning Weather team, led by Chief Meteorologist Tony Mainolfi, to stay ahead of any potential weather events.