Miami, FL – The National Hurricane Center is warning that Tropical Depression Nine is expected to strengthen over the weekend, bringing flash flooding, dangerous rainfall, and potential mudslides to parts of the Caribbean and southeastern United States early next week.
According to the latest advisory issued Saturday at 5 p.m. EDT, rainfall will continue to impact eastern Cuba, Hispaniola, Jamaica, and the Bahamas through the weekend, creating conditions ripe for urban flooding and mudslides in higher terrain. Officials note the risk is particularly significant in mountainous regions where soils are already saturated.
Forecasters also warn that heavy rainfall could extend into the U.S. beginning Monday, with impacts expected along portions of central Florida before spreading north into the Carolinas. This could trigger flash flooding, river flooding, and additional mudslide concerns in vulnerable areas.
The storm is forecast to strengthen near hurricane intensity as it approaches the southeast U.S. coast early next week. While the exact track remains uncertain, officials stress that residents from Florida through the Carolinas should monitor forecasts closely, review their emergency plans, and prepare for possible storm surge, wind damage, and dangerous flooding conditions.
Meteorologists emphasize that while it is too early to determine precise impacts, the risk of mudslides and flash flooding is high enough that communities across the Caribbean and the southeastern U.S. should take precautions now.
