ORLANDO, Fla. — Update:

Tropical Depression 7 has formed over the tropical Atlantic Ocean, the National Hurricane Center said Wednesday morning.

Winds are at 45mph and moving to the west at 14 mph.

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The forecast calls for this to strengthen into a tropical storm as it moves towards the Leeward Islands and Puerto Rico.

Watch Channel 9 Eyewitness News at Noon for live updates.

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Tropical Depression Seven has formed from the tropical wave we have been monitoring. Winds 45mph and moving to the west at 14mph. The forecast calls for this to strengthen into a tropical storm as it moves towards the Leeward Islands and Puerto Rico. pic.twitter.com/tn6Mx2FOVf
— Rusty McCranie (@RMcCranieWFTV) September 14, 2022

Tropical Depression #Seven Advisory 1: Tropical Depression Forms Over the Tropical Atlantic. Interests in the Leeward Islands Should Monitor the Progress Of This System. https://t.co/tW4KeGe9uJ
— National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) September 14, 2022

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Channel 9 meteorologists are closely monitoring a tropical wave that’s moving west across the Atlantic.

Channel 9 meteorologist Rusty McCranie said they’ll be watching the area over the next five days as there’s a high chance that it’ll develop into at least a tropical depression as it moves closer to the Leeward Islands.

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McCranie said regardless of development, the system will likely bring gusty winds and heavy rain to Puerto Rico this weekend.

McCranie said the system is not a threat to Florida, but it will be closely monitored as it moves westward.