Tallahassee, Florida – Residents along the Florida Panhandle are entering a period of increasing tropical weather concerns after Tropical Depression Two formed over the northeastern Gulf of Mexico. While Florida is expected to see the first impacts, emergency managers from the eastern Gulf Coast to Texas are closely watching the system as it gradually strengthens and begins a slow westward turn later this week.
According to the National Hurricane Center and the National Weather Service, Tropical Depression Two is forecast to move slowly northwest through Monday before approaching the Florida Panhandle with the potential to reach tropical storm strength. A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for portions of the Florida Panhandle, while marine warnings are already in effect for offshore waters. Forecasters also warn that flash flooding is possible through Thursday across parts of the eastern and central Gulf Coast.
Communities from Panama City to Apalachicola could experience periods of heavy rain, increasing winds and rough surf beginning Monday. The National Weather Service in Tallahassee also expects storm surge of 1 to 3 feet in Apalachee Bay and along portions of the Florida Big Bend. Boaters are urged to remain in port as hazardous seas build.
Farther west, forecast guidance indicates the system could turn toward the central or western Gulf Coast during the second half of the week. National Weather Service offices in Lake Charles and Corpus Christi say it is too early to determine specific impacts for Louisiana or Texas, but residents should closely monitor updates as watches may eventually become necessary. Heavy rainfall could begin reaching portions of southwest Louisiana by Tuesday, while interests along the Texas coast are encouraged to review hurricane plans now in case the track shifts farther west.
The exact path and intensity remain uncertain, and changes are still possible over the next several days. Additional advisories, watches and warnings may be issued as Hurricane Hunter aircraft and forecasters gather more information on Tropical Depression Two.
