According to meteorologists, a tropical wave moving across the eastern Caribbean Sea is expected to develop into a tropical storm within the next day or two.

The system currently produces showers and thunderstorms while moving westward at 15 to 20 mph. Forecasters expect the wave to slow down over the coming days as environmental conditions become more favorable for tropical development.

Heavy rainfall and gusty winds are anticipated across portions of Puerto Rico, Cuba, Hispaniola, and other areas of the western Caribbean, regardless of whether the system officially becomes a tropical storm.

If the system reaches tropical storm status, it will be named Melissa, the next name on this season’s list.

Meteorologists note that while hurricane frequency decreases in October. However, storms capable of threatening the United States can still occur during this time of year.

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(Image credit: NOAA)

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