Tropical Storm Bertha Forms, Aims for US Coast

Tropical Storm Bertha, the second named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, has formed and is projected to impact the Gulf Coast. As of Monday, the storm was situated south of the Florida Panhandle with sustained winds of 40 mph, moving at a slow pace.

The National Weather Service indicated that Bertha is expected to track along the northern Gulf Coast, potentially reaching areas near New Orleans and eastern Texas later in the week. Forecasters have warned of significant rainfall, with accumulations possibly reaching 8 inches in certain locations.

A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for an area extending from Florida's Ochlockonee River to the border of Louisiana's Plaquemines Parish. Additionally, a Storm Surge Watch is in effect for the coast between the Alabama/Florida border and the mouth of the Mississippi River.