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Storm off Bahamas has fleeting chance of becoming early tropical storm

By Scott T. Smith
A low pressure system east of the Bahamas is packing strong winds and high seas. Image via NOAA
A low pressure system east of the Bahamas is packing strong winds and high seas. Image via NOAA

March 27 (UPI) -- A weather disturbance east of the Bahamas bears the early appearance of a pre-tropical storm system but is not likely to organize into a named storm.

The low-pressure system spinning in the Atlantic packed gale-force winds up to 46 mph and 17-foot waves, posing a hazard to shipping. But relatively cool ocean temperatures of 75 degrees and strong wind shear of up to 69 mph make tropical storm development near impossible. It shows some circulation but no organized collection of storm activity.

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The low-pressure system, monitored through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's marine forecasts, is expected to head north and northeast, passing southeast of Bermuda on Tuesday. It poses no threat to land.

Atlantic hurricane season doesn't begin until June 1, though it's not impossible for storms to develop this early. NOAA records include a Category 2 hurricane that struck the Lesser Antilles in 1908.

Meanwhile, Australia is bracing for Category 4 Tropical Cyclone Debbie heading for its eastern coast.

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