Could there be a new tropical storm brewing in the Atlantic?

As we navigate the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, the National Hurricane Center is keeping a close eye on the tropics. As of Thursday, forecasters are monitoring one tropical depression and two additional disturbances, though the good news for the U.S. is that none of these systems currently pose a threat.

Tracking Tropical Depression Cristobal

Tropical Depression Cristobal is the main system currently on the map. After briefly strengthening into a tropical storm on Wednesday, it has since weakened to a depression. As of Thursday morning, Cristobal was positioned approximately 610 miles west of the Azores with sustained winds of 35 mph. The National Hurricane Center expects the system to continue its eastward track before dissipating later today.

Disturbances Under Observation

Beyond Cristobal, forecasters are tracking two other systems that have the potential to develop into tropical depressions in the coming days:

• Central Atlantic: A system currently located about 1,000 miles east of the Lesser Antilles is expected to become a short-lived depression. While it is projected to track westward, it should move into an environment unfavorable for further development by Friday. However, residents in the Lesser Antilles should prepare for potential heavy rain from Friday night into Saturday.
• Eastern Atlantic: A second area of interest is situated a few hundred miles south-southwest of the Cabo Verde Islands. This system may develop into a tropical depression as it continues a west or west-northwest track through the weekend.

A Quieter Season Ahead

So far, the 2026 Atlantic season has remained relatively mild, recording just three tropical storms and zero hurricanes. According to 205focus.com reports, NOAA meteorologists anticipate a season with lower activity than average, largely due to the influence of El Nino. For reference, a typical hurricane season usually produces 14 named storms, seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes.