Tropical Storm Ernesto forms in the Atlantic

ORLANDO, Fla. — Tropical Storm Ernesto formed in the Atlantic Ocean on Monday afternoon.

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Ernesto -- the fifth named storm of the 2024 hurricane season -- is moving toward the northeast Caribbean.

The system is expected to bring tropical storm-force winds and heavy rains to portions of the Leeward Islands, beginning late Monday.

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“Tropical storm conditions are expected in Puerto Rico and nearby islands starting Tuesday, and continuing with heavy rain and flooding through Wednesday,” chief meteorologist Tom Terry said. “The storm will steer way east of us, but drier air will affect us late this week and higher waves as well.”

Terry and certified meteorologist George Waldenberger are tracking the storm in Severe Weather Center 9. Watch live updates from them on Channel 9 Eyewitness News.

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Afternoon forecast: Monday, Aug. 12 (WFTV)

Earlier story:

Tropical disturbance in Atlantic could form as it moves into Caribbean Channel 9 meteorologists are monitoring what could soon become our next named tropical system in the Atlantic.

Channel 9 meteorologists are monitoring what could soon become our next named tropical system in the Atlantic.

Potential Tropical Cyclone Five is moving west at 25 mph and has maximum sustained winds around 30 mph.

It is expected to organize and become a named storm as soon as the next few days.

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If it does strengthen into a named storm, it will be classified as Ernesto.

The storm system will move into the Caribbean on Tuesday and be close to Puerto Rico on Wednesday.

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Thankfully, a front along the eastern coast of the U.S. should keep the disturbance to the east of Florida.

Channel 9 meteorologists will continue to monitor all tropical activity in the Atlantic and provide updates on Eyewitness News.

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Follow our Severe Weather team on X for live updates:

• Chief meteorologist Tom Terry
• Kassandra Crimi
• George Waldenberger
• Brian Shields

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