Development Possible East of Bahamas This Week

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- Disturbance has medium chance of developing, per NHC

- Next tropical storm would be named Otto

- No immediate threat to Florida or U.S.

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An upper-level area of low pressure is gradually becoming better organized near The Bahamas and might gradually develop into the season's next named tropical storm. The disturbance is tied to an old frontal boundary that moved off the Mid-Atlantic states over the weekend. It's not uncommon for a tropical or subtropical (meaning hybrid) storm to develop in this fashion this time of year, especially over the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean, or western Atlantic.

Forecast data suggests that whatever forms (or doesn't) will slowly drift northeast through midweek, then potentially stall or briefly turn northwest by the end of the week. On Friday, a stronger cold front is expected to arrive and sweep this potential development out to sea, steering clear of Florida and the United States.  The tighter pressure gradient, however, between this feature and the high pressure system to the north will keep the strong onshore winds blowing all week long. As a result, less than ideal boat and beach conditions are expected along Florida's Atlantic Coast in the coming days. Gusty winds, periods of cloudiness, minor beach erosion, and a few showers are possible from Jacksonville to Miami nearly every day this week.

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