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The National Hurricane Center (NHC) of the United States, based in Miami, confirmed this Wednesday the formation of Tropical Depression Seven in the waters of the central tropical Atlantic.
For the moment, specialists assure that the system does not pose an immediate threat to the mainland.
In an update posted on their X account, the NHC stated: "Tropical Depression Seven has formed over the central tropical Atlantic. This system is not expected to impact land in the coming days."
The phenomenon, which is still a poorly defined tropical cyclone, has been named Gabrielle.
According to the latest report from the NHC, at 11:00 AM AST (15:00 UTC) the storm was located near latitude 17.5 North, longitude 46.6 West.
It is moving toward the north-northwest at about 22 mph (35 km/h)
"It is expected to see movement at a reduced forward speed across the central tropical and subtropical Atlantic over the coming days," the note specifies.
Gabrielle is presenting maximum sustained winds of near 75 km/h (45 mph) with stronger gusts.
In the next 48 hours, it is expected to gain little strength, but it will intensify over the weekend.
A system under surveillance for days
Depression emerged from a areas of low pressure that had been monitored since the beginning of the week.
On Tuesday, the NHC warned that it had a 90% chance of becoming a depression or tropical storm in the next two days.
The system was located approximately halfway between the Windward Islands and the west coast of Africa, and it showed an increase in the organization of rainfall and thunderstorms since Monday, with environmental conditions favorable for its strengthening.
The atmospheric disturbance, located at that time halfway between Africa and the Lesser Antilles, showed an increase in the organization of rain and thunderstorms, leading experts to raise the probabilities of cyclonic development.
Another tropical wave under observation
In addition to Tropical Depression Seven, the NHC reported the presence of another tropical wave in the eastern tropical Atlantic: to the east and southeast of the Cape Verde islands, which is generating disorganized rains and thunderstorms.
Although the models indicate only marginally favorable environmental conditions, it is not ruled out that it could experience some development in the coming days as it moves westward. The odds of formation are low: 10% in 48 hours and 20% in seven days.
Despite this, the agency warned that this system could indeed cause heavy rainfall over the Cape Verde Islands between today and tomorrow.
A season of deceptive calm
The 2025 hurricane season, which officially runs from June 1 to November 30, has so far recorded six tropical storms and one hurricane, figures that are below initial expectations.
However, meteorologists insist that the peak of the season has not yet been reached.
Cuban specialist Raydel Ruisánchez recalled that October and November are usually the most critical months for the western Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico, with Cuba being among the areas of greatest historical risk.
"The calm of September is unusual. As many as eight additional systems could still form before the season ends," he warned.
Attentive to the evolution
While the NHC has reiterated that Tropical Depression Seven does not pose a threat to land at this time, meteorological authorities recommend staying informed about any changes in its trajectory or intensity.
The experience from previous years demonstrates that tropical systems can rapidly evolve and change their paths, making continuous monitoring essential for the region.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tropical Depression Seven and the 2025 Hurricane Season
What is Tropical Depression Seven in the Atlantic?
Tropical Depression Seven is an atmospheric system that formed in the Central Tropical Atlantic, monitored by the National Hurricane Center (NHC). It emerged from an area of low pressure and, although it does not pose an immediate threat to land, it remains under observation due to its potential for development in the coming days.
What is the current path of Tropical Depression Seven?
The Tropical Depression Seven is moving west-northwest at a speed of between 16 and 24 km/h. For now, it is not expected to make landfall in the coming days. However, the environmental conditions are favorable for its strengthening, so it is important to keep up with updates from the NHC.
How has cyclonic activity in the Atlantic been in 2025?
So far, the 2025 hurricane season has recorded six tropical storms and one hurricane, figures below expectations. However, meteorologists warn that the peak of the season has not yet arrived, particularly in October and November, critical months for the western Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico.
What other tropical waves are being monitored in the Atlantic?
In addition to Tropical Depression Seven, the NHC is monitoring another tropical wave to the east and southeast of the Cape Verde islands. This wave is producing disorganized rain and thunderstorms, with low chances of formation in the short term, but it could develop further in the coming days.
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