The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is monitoring two tropical systems that could approach Puerto Rico in mid-August 2026. One wave has a low (20%) chance of formation within a week, while another has a medium (50%) chance. The closer system is currently located southwest of the Cape Verde Islands.
Zamira Mendoza, meteorologist and communicator for Telenoticias, said the wave is expected to be over Atlantic waters by Monday-Tuesday, and "we could have a tropical depression or a tropical storm by the end of this week." A tropical wave will pass south of the islands, increasing low-level atmospheric humidity through Monday, though Saharan dust, dry air aloft, and a trade-wind inversion will limit significant rainfall.
After the wave exits the region Monday, scattered morning showers and localized afternoon showers are expected, mainly inland and in the west, but rain will remain limited in coming days, worsening ongoing drought conditions. Monday’s forecast: isolated showers before 9 a.m. and after noon, widespread haze, mostly sunny skies with a high of 90°F and heat index up to 106°F, east winds 11–17 mph with gusts to 22 mph, and a 20% chance of rain.