Tropical Depression Five strengthening
5:12 a.m. ET 8/25/06 W. Verno, Meteorologist, The Weather Channel
Severe Weather Outlook Hurricane Tracker: Debby
Tropical Depression Five continues to move west of the Lesser Antilles. An analysis of morning satellite imagery indicates that showers and thunderstorms have significantly increased near the center. If these trends continue, an upgrade to tropical storm status (named Ernesto) will be possible later today. The Air Force Hurricane Hunter Aircraft is scheduled to investigate the system early this afternoon.
For now, it appears the widespread squally weather will remain south of the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, but a few showers and thunderstorms on the outer fringes cannot be ruled out. While a westward movement still continues, the system is forecast to make a turn more toward the west-northwest within the next 3 days, approaching Jamaica. Environmental conditions are forecast to become more supportive for continued development, and a track threatening the Gulf of Mexico by early next week is possible. For now, interests along the Gulf coast states should simply monitor and be aware of the system.
In the eastern Atlantic, Tropical Storm Debby continues moving west-northwest. Debby has encountered some dry air, and should show little change in strength over the next day. A gradual turn toward a more northerly direction is expected in the next few days, and Debby will pose no threat to land.
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