A developing tropical depression in the Gulf of Mexico is poised to bring heavy rainfall and potential hurricane conditions to parts of Florida and the southeastern United States this weekend through Wednesday.
The system, currently located near the southern coast of Cuba, is expected to strengthen into a tropical storm by tonight and could reach hurricane strength before making landfall in the Florida Big Bend region late Sunday.
While the exact track of the storm remains uncertain, forecasters are confident that it will move across western Cuba this morning, into the eastern Gulf of Mexico later today, and towards the Florida Big Bend region on Sunday and Sunday night.
Read: Florida Man Extradited To Louisiana After Sending Indecent Videos To Juveniles
Key Messages:
- Heavy Rainfall and Flooding: Locally considerable flash and urban flooding is expected across parts of Florida and the coastal areas of the Southeast, with isolated river flooding also possible.
- Hurricane Watch: A Hurricane Watch is in effect for portions of west-central Florida and the Big Bend region, where hurricane conditions are possible late Sunday. Tropical storm conditions are expected farther south, including the Tampa Bay area.
- Storm Surge Watch: Life-threatening storm surge is possible along portions of Florida’s west coast, including Tampa Bay and Charlotte Harbor.
- Monitoring and Preparation: Residents in Florida and along the southeast coast should closely monitor the storm’s progress and be prepared for impacts from storm surge, strong winds, and heavy rain. Additional watches and warnings are likely.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is closely monitoring the system and will provide updates as it evolves. Residents are urged to stay informed and follow the guidance of local authorities.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Android Users: Download our free app to stay up-to-date on the latest news.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.