A slow-moving storm system reached tropical depression intensity on Tuesday just off the coast of Mexico. It's forecast to track east and north, and along the way winds could reach hurricane strength of over 74 miles per hour.
Late this week, there is an increasing risk of dangerous wind and storm surge impacts along portions of the northern Gulf Coast from Louisiana to the Florida Panhandle. Watches could be required on Wednesday.
The system will bring areas of heavy rainfall to the central U.S. Gulf coast Friday into the weekend. Flash and urban flooding, along with isolated river flooding, will be possible.
Some models, such as the one posted Tuesday night by the National Weather Service, shows the possibility of storm remnants tracking up the lower Mississippi valley to the lower Ohio valley by Sunday.
As it approaches, our local highs will be several degrees warmer than normal around 85. Rain chances build on Saturday night, then Sunday's high will be closer to 75.
On the Net:
National Hurricane Center
