Tropical Storm Erin Could Nudge New England This Week

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 spare New England any direct impact. 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 branch in Gray, ME, said Tuesday morning.

The tropical depression will stay well off-shore, but wind gusts could for rough waters for anyone trying to squeeze any last drops of summer out at the beach.

"Main concerns for our area going into next week will be the S(out) swell along Atlantic-facing beaches that'll result in high surf & rip currents," the NWS Boston branch 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 is uncertain.

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

This hurricane season could see between 10-17 named storms, and about half of those are expected to become hurricanes.