Extreme weather will be threatening Gulf states and the West Coast over the next week, according to the latest forecast.
There is a 50% chance for the development of a tropical depression in the next 48 hours and a 70% chance over the next seven days, in the western Gulf of Mexico.
This system is expected to bring heavy rain to the Mexico, Texas and Louisiana coasts in the coming days.
Rain from this system may begin as early as Tuesday but will come into play on Wednesday and Thursday when the heaviest rain is expected to fall.
The coast of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and parts of the Florida panhandle may see five to 10 inches of rainfall over the course of a few days next week from this tropical system, which would create a flood risk.
Some cities impacted include Houston, Brownsville, Beaumont, Lake Charles, New Orleans, Mobile, and Pensacola.
Stronger wind gusts will also accompany the heavy rainfall.
There is another system in the Atlantic that has a 40% chance of development over the next week.
A third complex has just a 20% chance of formation in the next seven days.
A lack of precipitation and high heat is creating a dangerous mix on the West Coast.
The excessive heat warning in effect for more than 15 million people in southern California is in place through Monday where temperatures each day could reach 100 to 110.
Some of the heat alerts, however, are set to expire on Saturday in the Pacific Northwest and central California.
There are also Red Flag Warnings in effect for fire weather due to the hot and dry conditions which would allow fires to spark and spread with ease.
There have been six new large fires in California since Thursday, according to Cal Fire. The largest is the Line Fire which sparked on Thursday and is nearing 4,000 acres burned with 0% contained.
This has led to evacuation orders in San Bernardino County.
While the near future is still hot for much of the West, there is a possible break in the extreme heat for the middle of the month as the Midwest and East begin to feel the above-average temperatures for a change.
A tropical depression is currently forming in the Gulf of Mexico and is expected to bring heavy rains to the Gulf Coast region in the coming days. This weather system has the potential to cause flooding, strong winds, and rough seas along the coast, posing a threat to residents and travelers in the area.
Tropical depressions are low-pressure systems that form over warm ocean waters and can develop into more severe storms, such as tropical storms or hurricanes. While they are not as intense as hurricanes, tropical depressions can still bring significant rainfall and wind gusts that can cause damage and disruption.
The National Hurricane Center is closely monitoring the development of this tropical depression and issuing regular updates on its track and intensity. Residents along the Gulf Coast are advised to stay informed about the latest weather forecasts and to take precautions to protect themselves and their property.
Heavy rains from tropical depressions can lead to flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas and areas with poor drainage. It is important for residents to avoid driving through flooded roadways and to seek higher ground if flooding occurs. In addition, strong winds associated with tropical depressions can down trees and power lines, causing power outages and property damage.
Boaters and beachgoers should also be cautious during this time, as rough seas and dangerous rip currents can pose a threat to those on or near the water. It is recommended to stay out of the water until conditions improve and to follow any advisories or warnings issued by local authorities.
In preparation for the potential impacts of this tropical depression, residents are encouraged to secure loose outdoor items, stock up on emergency supplies, and have a plan in place in case of evacuation. It is always better to be prepared than caught off guard in the event of severe weather.
As this tropical depression continues to develop and move closer to the Gulf Coast, it is important for residents to stay vigilant and heed any warnings or advisories issued by meteorologists and emergency management officials. By taking proactive measures and staying informed, we can minimize the risks associated with severe weather events and ensure the safety of our communities.
