ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — A tropical disturbance moving across Florida could strengthen into a tropical depression later this week as it enters the Gulf of Mexico, according to the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg and the National Hurricane Center.
The system, designated Invest 93L, is currently crossing the Florida Peninsula and is expected to reach the northeastern Gulf by midweek. Forecasters say environmental conditions are favorable for gradual development, and there is a 40% chance of cyclone formation over the next 48 hours.
If the system strengthens into a named storm, it would be called Dexter, the next name on the 2025 Atlantic hurricane list.
Forecasters say there is still considerable uncertainty about the disturbance’s track and development. One possible scenario keeps the system close to the coast, limiting development time. Another could allow it to move farther into the Gulf, increasing the potential for strengthening.
Meanwhile, residents across the western Carolinas and northeast Georgia can expect continued showers and thunderstorms through Friday, with daily rain chances ranging between 60 percent and 80 percent.
- Tuesday: High near 89 with widespread afternoon and evening thunderstorms.
- Tonight: Showers likely before 2 a.m., with patchy fog and a low around 68.
- Wednesday: More storms likely by mid-morning; high near 86.
- Thursday and Friday: Partly sunny with continued rounds of thunderstorms each afternoon and evening; highs in the mid to upper 80s.
Rainfall amounts are expected to remain light in most areas, though heavier downpours are possible in isolated storms.
Officials urge residents to monitor forecasts closely in the coming days, especially along the Gulf Coast, as the tropical system develops.