The National Hurricane Center has issued a watch for a weather disturbance in the North Atlantic, which may evolve into Tropical Storm Patty and make its way towards Spain. This system, initially designated as Invest 96L, has intensified into a tropical storm, although it is forecast to weaken to a tropical depression as it nears the Atlantic coast of Spain by early next week.
Tropical Depression and Cyclonic Development
A tropical depression, the starting point in the cyclonic development scale, is characterised by a low-pressure centre with sustained winds not exceeding 62 km/h (or 33 knots). Such formations emerge over warm water regions that foster cloud and storm development around this core. Although tropical depressions have moderate winds, they can still produce significant rainfall, which, when combined with slow movement, can sometimes result in localised flooding.
Potential Impact on Spain
After enduring recent severe weather from the DANA storm system, Spain remains vigilant. Tropical Storm Patty is expected to approach in a weakened state, likely only bringing moderate rainfall, especially to the country’s western regions. Rainfall will primarily affect the Spanish Atlantic coast, particularly in Galicia, the western Meseta, and western Andalusia. Additional showers may reach the western Cantabrian Sea and the northern plateau, but no hazardous weather or intense downpours are currently anticipated.
As Patty approaches, its downgraded strength means it poses no serious threat, but it could still bring some rain to areas already accustomed to storm activity, potentially helping to alleviate local drought conditions.
