An area of interest has formed in the eastern Atlantic and according to the National Hurricane Center, could become a tropical depression within a couple of days. Invest 96 was identified several hundred miles southwest of the Cape Verde Islands early Monday as having a "high" chance of developing by midweek as it steadily moves west-northwest at 15 mph. Upper-level and sea surface conditions are favorable for some strengthening of the system while on its journey across the Atlantic. Thereafter, long range forecast data suggests it might enter a more hostile environment for continued development once it nears the Leeward Islands by week's end. Invest 96 is no immediate threat to any land areas and is unlikely to pose a threat to the United States any time soon.

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