There are now two active tropical cyclones in the Atlantic Basin — tropical storm Bret and the newly formed Tropical Depression Four. 

As of the 11 AM advisory, Tropical Depression Four has 35 mph winds and is moving west/northwest at 15 MPH. The forecast calls for it to become Tropical Storm Cindy later today. It will take a more northerly course than Bret did — missing the Caribbean to the north as it treks to the northwest this weekend. It is not a threat to Florida.

Bret meanwhile remains a strong tropical storm with 70 mph winds, just shy of category 1 hurricane strength. It is moving westward at 14 mph — putting it on a collision course with the southern windward islands tonight. Tropical storm warnings are in effect for Martinique and Dominica and St. Lucia. 

As Bret attempts to cross the Caribbean Sea it will encounter high wind shear — which will force the storm to weaken. It is forecast to fall apart south of Hispaniola on Saturday. As such, Bret is no threat to SWFL or the United States. 

Let this early season activity serve as a reminder that we are in hurricane season and you need to be prepared. Download the ABC7 Hurricane Guide on abc-7.com and on the “ABC7 WX” app for tips and guidance on how to best prepare.