Lake Charles, Louisiana - A new round of tropical weather is drawing increased attention across the Atlantic and the Gulf as the National Hurricane Center monitors multiple systems during the peak of the 2025 hurricane season.
Low-Pressure Area in Southwestern Gulf Monitored for Development
Closer to the U.S. coastline, a broad area of low pressure has developed over the Yucatan Peninsula, producing disorganized showers and thunderstorms. This system, currently referred to by meteorologists as AL98, is forecast to drift west-northwest across the southwestern Gulf of America overnight. Environmental conditions in the region are only marginally favorable for development.
The National Hurricane Center gives this system a 20 percent chance of tropical depression or storm formation within the next 48 hours as it moves toward the Mexican coastline. It is expected to move inland near northeastern Mexico by late Friday, which would likely prevent any further development. Impacts to Louisiana and Deep South Texas are expected to be limited, with little concern for areas such as Lake Charles and the broader Southwest Louisiana region.
Fernand is the next name on the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season's list, ready to be assigned if this Gulf system meets the necessary criteria to become a tropical storm.
Erin Could Become First Hurricane of 2025 Atlantic Season
Further out in the Atlantic, as of 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 13, Tropical Storm Erin was located about 1,200 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands. Sustained winds have reached 50 mph, with higher gusts reported. Erin is currently moving west at 17 mph, and forecasters expect it will strengthen into a hurricane by Friday, potentially making it the first hurricane of the Atlantic season.
Meteorologists note that several conditions are working in Erin's favor for intensification, including warm ocean waters and minimal disruptive wind shear in the storm's current path.
Forecasts indicate that Erin will turn slightly to a west-northwest track by Thursday night and could pass near or just to the north of the northern Leeward Islands this weekend.
There are no coastal watches or warnings at this time.
What Residents Should Know
- While the Gulf system is unlikely to become a major threat locally in Southwest Louisiana, tropical weather conditions can evolve rapidly.
- Tropical Storm Erin is too far east to have immediate impact on U.S. land, but its future path should be monitored, particularly by residents in the northern Leeward Islands and Puerto Rico for possible swells and hazardous surf.
Hurricane season remains active through November, and officials recommend that Gulf Coast residents review readiness plans and stay updated.
Two-Day Graphical Tropical Weather Outlook
Seven-Day Graphical Tropical Weather Outlook
Tropical Storm Erin Probable Path (Cone of Uncertainty) Forecast
Gulf of America and Atlantic Infrared Satellite
