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Bertha Intensifies, Threatens Gulf Coast With Winds and Rain
22 Jul
Summary
- Tropical Storm Bertha strengthened with 60 mph winds, nearing the Gulf Coast.
- Tropical storm warnings now include seven Florida counties and Louisiana.
- Heavy rainfall and storm surge are expected along the coast through Thursday.
Tropical Storm Bertha has strengthened significantly as it tracks toward the Gulf Coast. As of Tuesday evening, its center was located near the coasts of Alabama and Florida, carrying maximum sustained winds of 60 mph. Tropical storm warnings are now in effect for a large stretch of the coast, from the Bay-Gulf County line in Florida westward to Morgan City, Louisiana, encompassing New Orleans and Lake Pontchartrain.
Further intensification is not widely expected, with forecasters anticipating gradual weakening over the coming days due to persistent wind shear. However, the storm is still expected to bring considerable impacts. Residents along the Gulf Coast from western Florida to southern Louisiana should prepare for 2-4 feet of storm surge, with localized higher amounts possible. Rainfall of 2-4 inches is forecast, with some areas potentially receiving up to 6 inches, raising concerns for flash flooding.
The Atlantic hurricane season officially began on June 1 and runs through November 30. While this season is projected to be below normal, with 8-14 named storms predicted, Bertha is the second named storm to form in the Gulf. The storm's swells could also generate life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.
