TROPICAL DEPRESSION THREE COULD BECOME CRISTOBAL TODAY… FORECASTERS HAVE HEAVIEST OF THE RAIN TO REMAIN OFF THE COAST OF VA… THE OUTER BANKS MAY GET CLIPPED
Tropical Depression 3 has formed off the Southeast Coast and is expected to move slowly NE today. However, it has been moving very erratically the past several hours. It may strengthen into a tropical storm today but keep in mind intensity forecasts for tropical systems are very difficult. Conditions are favorable for strengthening. The official NHC track takes it just to the southeast of the Outer Banks on Sunday. Since the heaviest of the rain is along and to the east of the path, Hampton Roads should be spared the worst that this system has to offer. However, with high dew points, some heavy showers on the outer periphery of this system are possible across SE VA and NE NC. Could the track change and bring the storm closer to Hampton Roads? That is possible so please check with your local media throughout the weekend for updates. After this system goes by, next week’s forecast is a bit uncertain at this time. A developing trough to our west and an approaching cold front may produce the chance of thunderstorms each day. Monday may be quite hot as an offshore flow develops.
