Severe Weather Forecast: Tropical System Threatens Gulf Coast
The tropical system is expected to move inland over Louisiana by Friday, bringing rainfall to the area, with rip current danger high at beaches on Thursday and Friday, and offshore waters will be rough, prompting officials to warn of potential flash flooding, especially if rain bands repeatedly track over the same areas.
A tropical disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico is expected to bring heavy rain to Louisiana and Mississippi, with a 40% chance of developing into a tropical depression or named storm, prompting officials to issue flood watches for several areas, including New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for parts of Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama, with 3-6 inches of rain forecasted and potential for 10-15 inches locally. New Orleans officials have stockpiled 8,000 sandbags and are preparing for the storm, which is expected to bring tropical downpours to the region over the next several days. A Level 1 of 4 risk of flooding rain is in place along the Gulf Coast from Florida to Louisiana, with a Level 2 risk in southeastern Louisiana, including New Orleans.
Meanwhile, the Northeast is bracing for more flooding, with flood watches issued for parts of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Washington D.C., and Virginia. Heavy rain and flash flooding are expected, with rainfall rates of 1-3 inches per hour possible. In the Midwest, a tornado watch has been issued for Wisconsin, with hail and damaging wind gusts up to 70 mph expected. A severe thunderstorm watch is also in effect for parts of Indiana and Illinois, with damaging winds the main threat for Chicago.
The system's track and strength will determine the severity of the flooding, with several inches of rain possible in the worst-case scenarios. Residents in the affected areas are advised to stay tuned to the latest weather forecast and follow evacuation orders if necessary. With the potential for severe weather and flooding, it is essential to prioritize safety and take necessary precautions to protect life and property.