A tropical disturbance moving across the central Atlantic could strengthen into a tropical depression in the coming days, forecasters have warned.

The US National Hurricane Center (NHC) said the system, currently labelled AL91, is producing limited showers and thunderstorms as it tracks westward at about 10mph (16km/h).

Dry air in the region has been suppressing storm development, and conditions are expected to remain only “marginally favourable” in the short term. However, the NHC said a tropical depression could form in the early to middle part of next week.

The wave is likely to approach the Lesser Antilles by mid to late next week. Residents there are being urged to monitor forecasts closely.

The chance of formation within the next 48 hours is estimated at 30%, rising to 60% over the next seven days.

This system is one of several disturbances the NHC is monitoring as the Atlantic hurricane season reaches its traditional peak in September.