New Orleans, LA – Tropical Storm Bertha continued moving westward near the Louisiana coast Thursday morning, with tropical storm warnings remaining in effect along portions of the northwestern Gulf Coast as forecasters track the system toward the upper Texas coast.
According to the National Hurricane Center, the center of Bertha was located about 145 miles west-southwest of New Orleans at 7 a.m. CDT Thursday. The storm was moving west near 13 mph, with a general westward motion expected through the day before turning west-southwest Friday.
Maximum sustained winds were estimated at 45 mph, with higher gusts. Forecasters said little change in strength is expected before Bertha reaches the upper Texas coast later Thursday. The system is then forecast to weaken quickly as it moves inland, with dissipation expected by Thursday night or Friday.
Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 160 miles from the center, meaning impacts will be felt well away from Bertha’s core. A National Ocean Service station at Eugene Island, Louisiana, recently reported sustained winds of 36 mph with a wind gust reaching 45 mph.
Residents along coastal Louisiana and Texas should expect periods of heavy rain, gusty winds, rough surf, and hazardous marine conditions. Localized flooding is possible in areas that receive heavier rainfall, while travel along portions of the coast could become difficult as rain bands move inland.
The National Hurricane Center advises residents in areas under tropical storm warnings to continue monitoring official forecasts and follow guidance from local emergency management officials. Additional advisories will be issued as Bertha approaches the Texas coastline.
