Tropical Storm Very Likely As System Closes In On Caribbean

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS - The National Hurricane Center is tracking a low pressure system in the central Atlantic that will likely turn into a tropical storm by the time it reaches the U.S. Virgin Islands. As of 2 p.m. on Wednesday, June 30, forecasters gave the storm a 90% chance of forming into a tropical depression or storm over the next five days.

The disturbance is a broad, low pressure area currently producing showers and thunderstorms. According to the NHC forecast, "Environmental conditions appear generally favorable for continued development, and a tropical depression or storm is likely to form during the next day or two while the system moves west-northwestward at 20 to 25 mph."

Forecasters warned, "Interests in the Lesser Antilles should closely monitor the progress of this system, as advisories on a potential tropical cyclone, accompanied by tropical storm watches for portions of this area, are likely to be issued later today."

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