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Miami, FL - A tropical depression currently brewing in the Atlantic Ocean is expected to intensify into a major hurricane by the end of the week.
The storm, which will be named Kirk once it reaches tropical storm strengths with sustained winds between 39 to 73 mph, is currently moving westward across the Central Atlantic and is forecast to be headed toward the East Coast of the United States.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) predicts that the depression will strengthen into a hurricane by Tuesday night or Wednesday due to storm-strengthening conditions, such as warm ocean temperatures, moist air, and low wind shear.
The exact landfall location of the storm remains uncertain.
The developing storm comes on the heels of Hurricane Helene, which claimed nearly 100 lives when it struck the southeastern United States last week.
Hurricane Helene caused catastrophic flooding in North Carolina, resulting in over 30 deaths and hundreds of missing persons.
As the Atlantic hurricane season continues through November 30th, residents along the East Coast are advised to monitor weather updates and be prepared for potential impacts from Kirk.