Tropical Storm Erin Could Affect New York This Week

NEW YORK – A tropical depression is churning in the Atlantic Ocean and, while it's expected to intensify into Tropical Storm Erin, the system is likely going to stay miles off the Northeast's shore. But that's not to say it won't be felt at all, forecasters warned.

"Tropical Depression 6 may not directly impact New England, but it will provide moisture to a crossing cold front, increasing potential for heavy rain," the National Weather Service said Tuesday morning.

Wind gusts will cause rough waters for anyone trying to squeeze the last drops of summer out at the beach.

"Main concerns for our area going into next week will be the swell along Atlantic-facing beaches that'll result in high surf & rip currents," the NWS said.

Southern New England can expect some rain late Wednesday into early Thursday, but look for a return to sunny skies and warm temperatures to close the week.

Tropical Depression 6 isn't to be confused with Tropical Storm Dorian, which will take most of the headlines. Dorian is expected to be near hurricane strength by the time it gets to Puerto Rico Wednesday. Dorian's threat to Florida and the east coast was uncertain Tuesday.

"Uncertainty in the intensity forecast later this week remains higher than usual due to Dorian's potential interaction with Hispaniola and Puerto Rico," the National Hurricane Center said.

This hurricane season could see between 10-17 named storms, with about half of those expected to become hurricanes, the National Hurricane Center predicts.

Reported by Mike Carraggi/Patch