A broad area of low pressure in the Caribbean Sea is likely to become a tropical cyclone within the next few days. The system, currently disorganized, is expected to strengthen as it moves across the Gulf of Mexico, potentially reaching hurricane strength by Wednesday.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued Tropical Storm Warnings and Hurricane Watches for parts of Mexico and Cuba.
Interests along the northeastern Gulf Coast, including the Florida Panhandle and portions of the Florida west coast, are advised to monitor the system’s progress.
Read: NHC Tropical Weather Update: Potential Hurricane Brewing In The Caribbean
While the system’s exact path remains uncertain, heavy rainfall and storm surge are expected in affected areas. The NHC forecasts significant strengthening as the system moves across the Gulf, potentially reaching hurricane intensity in 72 hours.
An Air Force Reserve reconnaissance aircraft is scheduled to investigate the system later today.
Read: Hurricane Debby: Florida Agricultural Production Losses Top $93M, UF Economists Estimate
Key Messages and Potential Impacts:
- Rainfall: Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine is expected to produce heavy rainfall, leading to a risk of flash and urban flooding, as well as minor river flooding in western Cuba, the Cayman Islands, and the eastern Yucatan Peninsula. Heavy rainfall is also expected to spread into the southeastern U.S. from Wednesday through Friday, bringing a risk of flash and river flooding.
- Storm Surge: Storm surge could raise water levels by 2 to 4 feet above normal tide levels in areas of onshore winds along the southern coast of Pinar del Rio, Cuba, including the Isle of Youth. Similar storm surge levels are possible along the east coast of the Yucatan Peninsula.
- Wind: Hurricane conditions are possible within the watch areas by early Wednesday, and tropical storm conditions are expected in the warning areas beginning on Tuesday.
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.