Tropical Depression Four has formed over the tropical Atlantic. The depression was centered near 12.8°N 38.4°W. Maximum sustained winds were estimated at 25 knots (30 mph), with an estimated minimum pressure of 1009 mb. Four is expected to strengthen slightly as it moves west-northwestward through the tropical Atlantic, but the National Hurricane Center (NHC) currently does not expect that the depression will strengthen into a tropical storm. Increasing wind shear and dry air will likely limit intensification, and the official NHC forecast predicts the depression to degenerate into a remnant low by Saturday. Four is not expected to impact land areas as a tropical cyclone.

NHC classified Four based on an area of persistent deep convection and an ASCAT pass from Wednesday evening indicated that the circulation had become well-defined. If Four strengthens into a tropical storm it will be named Don.

I will be back tomorrow for an update on Tropical Depression Four.