Tropical System AL98 Could Develop Into Melissa Next Week

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – As late October approaches, meteorologists are closely watching tropical system AL98 in the Atlantic. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is monitoring its potential to develop into a named storm by mid-week in the Caribbean.

This large area of showers and thunderstorms is becoming more organized as it tracks westward across the central Atlantic. The NHC has issued warnings that the Windward Islands may experience gusty winds and heavy rain through Monday before the system enters the Caribbean Sea.

Forecasters note the record-warm waters in the Caribbean could aid in strengthening the system. However, they emphasize that significant uncertainty remains regarding its exact path and intensity as it progresses. If it develops into a storm, it would be named Melissa, marking the 13th storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season.

Another system in the North Atlantic, positioned several hundred miles east of the U.S. Northeast coast, is also being monitored. While currently a non-tropical low-pressure system, the NHC indicated it may develop some subtropical or tropical features as it moves over warmer waters. Despite this, the system is expected to drift away from land and poses no immediate threat.

With the official end of the Atlantic hurricane season not until November 30, this activity serves as a reminder that it is not yet time to relax. October and early November have historically produced impactful storms, especially in the Caribbean.

Meteorologists encourage residents in hurricane-prone areas to stay informed about the situation as developments unfold in the coming days.