Potential Tropical Storm Dolly Monitored in Eastern Atlantic

A tropical wave designated Invest 96L is moving west-northwestward south of the Cape Verde Islands and could intensify into a tropical depression and possibly a tropical storm later this week. The National Hurricane Center said the next system to reach tropical-storm strength will be named Dolly, continuing the pre-selected rotating list of names.

The disturbance remains about 2,500 miles from the Lesser Antilles. Forecast models suggest it may encounter strong El Niño-enhanced wind shear and dry air, which could limit development as it approaches the islands by Sunday. If the system overcomes these factors, it is expected to turn northward next week and could intensify further in the subtropical Atlantic, according to computer guidance.

The NHC indicated that the system does not pose an immediate threat to the mainland United States, but residents of the Lesser Antilles are advised to monitor its progress.

The Atlantic hurricane season is entering its busiest period, with activity typically increasing in August and peaking in mid-September. While El Niño conditions are expected to suppress storm formation, they do not eliminate the possibility of tropical cyclones developing.