A Tropical Depression Formed in the Gulf of Mexico, May Intensify into a Hurricane
A tropical depression has formed over the southwestern Gulf of Mexico and is expected to intensify into a hurricane in the next few days as it heads towards the west coast of Florida.
Current Status
Tropical Depression Fourteen currently has maximum sustained winds of 35 mph and is moving north-northeast at 3 mph, located about 210 miles north-northeast of Veracruz, Mexico. The depression is forecast to strengthen into Tropical Storm Milton later Saturday, and then into a hurricane by early Monday.
Impact Areas
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has identified the following areas that could be affected by the storm:
- Yucatan peninsula of Mexico
- Florida Peninsula
- Florida Keys
- Northwester Bahamas
Watch and Warning
Hurricane and storm surge watches may be issued for portions of Florida, particularly along the southwest coast and the Florida Keys, on Sunday.
Movement and Impact
The system is expected to move slowly, but it could become a major hurricane while moving across the central and eastern Gulf. The NHC forecasts that the depression will continue to dump rain and thunderstorms over the southwestern Gulf of Mexico.
Where is the Tropical Depression Headed?
While it’s too early to definitively say where the tropical depression will track, model guidance and the NHC hint at the core of the system remaining near Tampa. If the storm track occurs north of Tampa, it could bring significant storm surge to Fort Myers and moderate surge to Key West, along with gusty winds for the Lower Keys, but would not bring much more than rain to the rest of South Florida.
What will be the Impacts in South Florida?
Expect rain from Sunday to Wednesday, with the most falling on Monday. The cyclone will also bring breezy and windy conditions to the region on late Tuesday and Wednesday. Weather alerts like flood and tropical storm watches and warnings could go into effect.
How Much Rain Should We Expect?
The National Weather Service is estimating up to 8 inches of rain in Miami-Dade and up to 10 inches of rain in Broward over the four days, from Sunday to Wednesday. Total rainfall amounts could climb to over a foot closer to the actual center of the cyclone.
Conclusion
The tropical depression in the Gulf of Mexico has the potential to intensify into a hurricane and bring significant impacts to the west coast of Florida. Residents and visitors should monitor the situation and follow updates from trusted sources for the latest information.
FAQs
Q: Where is the tropical depression currently located?
A: The tropical depression is currently located about 210 miles north-northeast of Veracruz, Mexico, with maximum sustained winds of 35 mph.
Q: Will the storm affect the rest of the country?
A: The National Weather Service is only forecasting an impact for South Florida, the Florida Keys, and the broader Florida Peninsula.
Q: What should I do to prepare for the storm?
A: Residents are advised to monitor the situation and follow updates from trusted sources for the latest information on the storm’s track, timing, and potential impacts. It is also a good idea to have a disaster supply kit ready, including food, water, and medications, in case of power outages and flooding.
