14th Named Storm Forms in Caribbean

This is the 10th time on record that fourteen plus named storms have formed through this date. Tropical Depression 16 has been named Nate and is forecast to strengthen to a category one hurricane over the next few days. Nate is moving NW at 8mph,  but is forecast to make a NNW track speeding up late today into tomorrow. The center of this storm is forecast by the National Hurricane Center to move across northeastern Nicaragua and eastern Honduras today, and then over the northwestern Caribbean Sea both tonight and Friday.

While the storm won't be a Hurricane before land fall near Central America, it will still produce dangerous amounts of rain. Anywhere from 15-20" of rain will be possible, with isolated amounts up to 30 inches for Nicaragua. Costa Rica and Panama rain totals will add up to 5-10" with isolated amount close to 20" inches. This could cause life-threatening flash floods and even mudslides. Hazards also include strong winds and dangerous surf.

Once Nate moves near the Gulf of Mexico, it is forecast to strengthen to a category one hurricane. Right now the forecast cone is eyeing the panhandle of Florida, along with the southeast coast of Louisiana. We'll keep you posted on developments with Nate as it approaches the U.S., and you can also get in depth updates here.