Tropical Disturbance in Gulf Strengthens, Depression Expected by NHC
A tropical disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico is strengthening and is likely to become a tropical or subtropical depression in the coming days, with an 80% chance of development over seven days. Heavy rainfall and gusty winds are anticipated in Florida and parts of Mexico, with possible flooding due to saturated ground conditions. 5 to 10 inches of rainfall is expected from Central to South Florida.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) reports that a tropical disturbance currently located in the Gulf of Mexico is gaining strength and is projected to develop into a tropical or subtropical depression within the next few days. As of 2 a.m. on Saturday, this system shows an 80% likelihood of developing within seven days and a 50% chance of formation within the ensuing 48 hours. Although extensive, the area of low pressure associated with this disturbance is generating winds that are nearing gale force. Meteorologist Rebecca Barry from Max Defender 8 indicated that the system is expected to make landfall as either a tropical storm or a Category 1 hurricane across the state late Tuesday night into Wednesday, taking on the next name in the naming list for the year—Milton. Residents of Florida, the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, and the Bahamas are advised to closely monitor the system’s trajectory as it moves eastward or northeastward over the Gulf of Mexico. “It’s too soon to tell what areas will be impacted the most, as that will depend heavily on landfall location,” Barry emphasized. The NHC forecasts gusty winds and significant rainfall across Florida and parts of Mexico beginning late this weekend and extending into early next week. Chief Meteorologist Jeff Berardelli from Max Defender 8 noted that heavy rain will commence on Sunday as the first moisture wave approaches Florida’s coastline. This pattern of intermittent rainfall interspersed with dry periods will persist through Tuesday. “Given that the ground is saturated after one of the rainiest wet seasons on record, any downpours will lead to flooding,” Berardelli cautioned. While the precise path of the storm and its intensity upon reaching Florida on Wednesday remain uncertain, rainfall totals of 5 to 10 inches are anticipated from Central to South Florida. Additionally, a new tropical wave has emerged off the coast of Africa, possessing a 30% chance of developing within the next week as it traverses the Atlantic. The NHC acknowledges that some level of development is plausible. Furthermore, Hurricane Kirk continues to be a formidable presence in the Open Atlantic, with expectations of large swells affecting the U.S. East Coast by Sunday. Hurricane Leslie, located in the Tropical East Atlantic, has experienced slight strengthening as it persists in its west-northwest trajectory.
The article centers on the current situation regarding a tropical disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico, as monitored by the National Hurricane Center. It provides key meteorological information about the likelihood of this disturbance developing into a stronger storm and highlights the potential impacts on affected regions, particularly Florida and parts of Mexico. The article also mentions other weather systems, such as Hurricane Kirk and Hurricane Leslie, indicating a broader context of tropical activity in the Atlantic Ocean.
In conclusion, the tropical disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico is on track to intensify into a tropical or subtropical depression, with potential impacts on Florida and surrounding areas expected to commence shortly. Residents are advised to prepare for possible flooding and monitor the system’s development closely as meteorologists project significant rainfall and gusty winds in the coming days. The National Hurricane Center continues to provide updates as the situation evolves.
Original Source: www.wfla.com
