Tropical Storm Erika forms in the Atlantic

Tropical Storm Erika formed today in the Atlantic just east of the windward islands. According to The Weather Channel Tropical Update, the path of this storm will be influenced by how strong the storm becomes.

Early indications are that Erika will develop into a hurricane sometime next week. First she must pass through some nasty pressure systems that may interfere with further development at first. Once through that gauntlet then Erika can intensify. If she remains weak, then she will likely head more westerly towards Florida. If she strengthens a bunch then she may be propelled up the east coast followign the paths of Bill and Danny.

Video: Erica stalls while Jimena weakens (The Weather Channel - Includes update on Hurricane Jimena)

Tropical Storm Erika formed in the Atlantic late on Tuesday. Erika is centered about 390 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands. Maximum sustained winds are 50 mph and has become nearly stationary. It should resume a WNW movement later tonight. Tropical storm watches have been issued for the northern Leeward Islands. Residents of the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico will have to watch this system carefully. Even if Erika remains a tropical storm, it could be capable of producing heavy rain and widespread flooding.