TROPICS: Watching Invest 98-L in week ahead

A tropical wave, designated as Invest 98-L, is currently located several hundred miles from the Windward Islands and is generating a broad area of showers and thunderstorms.

This system is moving westward at a quick speed of 20-25 mph. Gradual development is possible over the coming days once it enters the Caribbean, which is expected early next week.

Regardless of its development, heavy rainfall and gusty winds are anticipated as the wave approaches the Windward Islands Sunday before moving through the Caribbean Sea where conditions will be favorable for more development and strengthening.

Formation chances are low in the next two days, but odds are increasing over the next week. The next named storm will be Melissa.

Models are starting to hint at a turn away from the U.S., but it is still several days out from knowing the path and strength. The Bahamas and Puerto Rico should especially keep a close eye on the disturbance.

TRACKING THE TROPICS: Hurricane Center | Hurricane Guide

In the North Atlantic, a non-tropical area of low pressure no longer has a chance for development due encountering cooler waters.

*Portions of this story were assisted by artificial intelligence tools and reviewed by a WPTV journalist to ensure accuracy, clarity, and adherence to editorial standards.

Copyright 2025 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.