The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has raised the development odds for Invest 98L, a weather system moving through the Windward Islands. Forecasters anticipate it may soon develop into a tropical depression or possibly Tropical Storm Melissa as it progresses into the Caribbean.
Invest 98L Overview
Invest 98L is a term used by the NHC to designate disturbances under investigation for potential development into tropical systems. This designation enables the NHC to employ specialized hurricane forecast models on the system.
Current Status and Movement
- Invest 98L is currently traversing the Windward Islands.
- The system lacks a closed circulation but shows signs of organization.
- It is moving quickly westward at speeds of 20 to 25 mph.
Its rapid movement may hinder development in the immediate short term. However, environmental conditions are predicted to improve, allowing the system to strengthen as it slows down in the Caribbean.
Predictions for Development
Weather specialists estimate that Invest 98L could evolve into Tropical Storm Melissa or even a hurricane. Different forecasts suggest varying outcomes:
- One scenario indicates a rapid strengthening of the system, leading it toward the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and nearby islands.
- Another scenario suggests the system may remain weak and linger in the Caribbean for an extended period.
The NHC now forecasts the likelihood of a tropical depression developing by mid to late this week in the central Caribbean region.
Impact on Surrounding Areas
Regardless of its development status, heavy rainfall and high winds are already impacting parts of the Windward and Leeward Islands. Residents can expect these conditions to persist through Monday morning.
Seasonal Context
If Invest 98L ultimately becomes Tropical Storm Melissa, it will mark the 13th named storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, which spans from June 1 to November 30.
