In the upcoming week, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) is closely monitoring two areas for possible tropical development. While the chances of formation are currently low, experts are keeping a watchful eye on these regions.

According to the latest update from the NHC, an area of low pressure is expected to develop northeast of the central Bahamas by midweek. Senior Hurricane Specialist Jack Beven acknowledged the possibility of some development as the system moves westward or west-northwestward. Over the next 48 hours, the likelihood of a tropical depression forming is near zero, but the NHC places the odds at 30% over the next seven days.

Another area of concern lies in the southwestern Gulf of Mexico, where a region of disturbed weather has formed over Central America, the Yucatan Peninsula, and the northwestern Caribbean Sea. Beven mentioned that a broad area of low pressure is forecast to form in the southwestern Gulf of Mexico within a day or two. Environmental conditions indicate a gradual development, and there is a 10% chance of formation within the next 48 hours. The NHC rates the likelihood of a tropical depression forming in the next seven days as "medium," at 60%.

While these potential systems are being monitored, the NHC issued a warning about heavy rainfall in southern Mexico and Central America. Regardless of tropical development, several days of intense rainfall are expected, which could lead to life-threatening flooding and flash flooding.

On a different note, there may be a temporary relief from the tropical conditions as Saharan dust is reportedly making its way across the Atlantic Ocean. The NHC's Tropical Analysis and Forecast Branch mentioned that these outbreaks of Saharan dust typically occur between late June and early August, and they usually diminish by mid-August. This natural phenomenon is known to suppress shower and thunderstorm activity.

As the hurricane season progresses, experts are closely observing the evolving weather patterns and providing timely updates to ensure the community is prepared for any potential tropical activity.