Mobile, Alabama – Residents along the central Gulf Coast have little time to prepare as Tropical Depression Two is expected to strengthen into a tropical storm later today while moving toward the northern Gulf Coast. Heavy rain, increasing winds and coastal flooding could begin affecting parts of the region by tonight, creating hazardous travel conditions and raising the risk of flash flooding through the workweek.
According to the National Hurricane Center, the center of Tropical Depression Two was located about 210 miles southeast of Mobile at 7 a.m. CDT and was moving north-northwest at 3 mph. Forecasters expect gradual strengthening today, with the system becoming a tropical storm while tracking near or along the northern Gulf Coast during the next several days. Maximum sustained winds were 35 mph with higher gusts.
The greatest statewide impacts are expected across coastal Alabama, with Mobile and surrounding communities facing the potential for tropical storm-force conditions by tonight into Tuesday. Storm surge of 1 to 3 feet is possible from the Mississippi-Alabama border eastward through Mobile Bay and into portions of the Florida Panhandle, especially during high tide. Low-lying roads and coastal neighborhoods could experience flooding.
Rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches are expected across much of the Gulf Coast through Friday, with isolated amounts near 6 inches possible from western Florida to the middle Texas coast, including southern Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana. Urban areas and locations with poor drainage could see flash flooding develop quickly.
Dangerous surf and life-threatening rip currents are also expected along Gulf beaches as swells spread westward. Residents should avoid entering the water, secure outdoor items, monitor local emergency alerts and be prepared for changing conditions if additional watches or warnings are issued. The National Hurricane Center’s next advisory is scheduled for 10 a.m. CDT.
