If you’re in a hurry, here’s a quick rundown of the latest tropical developments.
The National Hurricane Center’s latest advisory reports that tropical storm watches or warnings might be issued today as Invest 97L progresses towards the Gulf of Mexico.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for 54 of the state’s 67 counties in anticipation of the storm.
AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Expert Paul Pastelok indicates that the storm could intensify in the eastern Gulf of Mexico, making it critical for residents from Louisiana to Florida’s west coast to prepare.
The National Hurricane Center places the chance of development at 60% over the next 48 hours and 90% over the next seven days. Heavy rains are expected to potentially cause flash flooding across Florida this weekend.
The National Weather Service in Tallahassee warns that the storm could strengthen as it moves north, possibly achieving hurricane status, with landfall projected between late Sunday and early Monday anywhere from Apalachicola to Tampa Bay.
If the storm reaches sustained winds of 39 mph, it will be named Tropical Storm Debby, the fourth named storm of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season.
Despite uncertainties, Florida residents should prepare for heavy rains and potential flash flooding. The system, now a poorly organized cluster of showers and thunderstorms over parts of the Caribbean, is anticipated to move near or over Cuba before emerging into the Straits of Florida, where environmental conditions could foster its development into a tropical depression.
NOAA Hurricane Hunter aircraft will investigate the system today.
Residents should monitor updates, as tropical storm watches or warnings may be issued later today.
Governor DeSantis has urged all residents to prepare and follow guidance from local officials.
The National Hurricane Center’s tropical outlook map indicates possible areas for tropical cyclone development but not specific storm paths.
Weather conditions are expected to worsen in Florida, with heavy rains and gusty thunderstorms likely. The system’s trajectory remains uncertain, and its impact will depend on its development and track.
Residents in Northeast Florida, Tallahassee, and the Panhandle should stay alert for updates, as the storm’s potential impact remains uncertain.
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, with peak activity expected around September 10. Residents are advised to stay prepared for what is expected to be a very active hurricane season.
Stay tuned for further updates and ensure you are connected to the latest news by downloading local news apps.