Tropical wave near Africa could form into a depression by next week, forecasters say

Hurricane forecasters are watching a tropical wave off the west coast of Africa that could develop into a tropical depression by next week.

The wave is producing disorganized showers and thunderstorms, according to the National Hurricane Center’s 8 a.m. Friday update.

“Environmental conditions appear conducive for some gradual development of this system over the next several days,” forecasters wrote.

The system is moving west at 10 to 15 mph across the eastern and central tropical Atlantic. It’s far too soon to tell if it will become a threat to Florida, the Caribbean or other coastal areas in the United States.

Forecasters currently give it a 0% chance of formation within 48 hours and a 40% chance of development over the next seven days.

This story was originally published September 12, 2025 at 8:16 AM.