**Tropical Depression Expected to Form in Caribbean, Heads Toward Gulf of Mexico**

Forecasters are closely monitoring a system in the central Caribbean Sea that's expected to develop into a tropical depression within the next week, potentially reaching the Gulf of Mexico early next week. According to the National Hurricane Center in Miami, this disturbance has a 90% chance of formation within the next two days as it drifts westward.

The system is likely to experience further development over the coming weekend while moving northwest. Forecasters predict the system to approach the southeastern Gulf with hazardous sea conditions and strong winds. Heavy rainfall is anticipated in Jamaica in the next day or so, regardless of the system's advancement. Residents in western and northwestern Caribbean regions are urged to stay updated on the system's progress.

If this disturbance transforms into a named storm, it will be called Sara, marking the 18th named storm of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, which concludes on November 30. However, local impacts remain uncertain, as forecasters with the National Weather Service in New Orleans mentioned it's too early to determine its potential path or effects on the area.

Meanwhile, the remnants of Rafael were observed south of Louisiana in the central Gulf, anticipated to merge with a weak cold front later in the day. Strong winds are expected over the northeastern Gulf and the Straits of Florida on Wednesday. Northerly winds will likely develop over the western half of the Gulf early Thursday, extending to the eastern waters by Friday due to the cold front.

While this weaker cold front will bring drier conditions and cooler evenings to Louisiana, forecasters also noted another front could arrive next week, potentially bringing near-freezing temperatures. It remains uncertain if this second front will impact Louisiana.

Stay informed this hurricane season by signing up for the free Hurricane Center newsletter.