Isaias is expected to strengthen rapidly and approach the northern Gulf Coast on Friday. Hurricane watches are likely for parts of the coast later Wednesday.
Tropical Storm Isaias has formed in the Gulf and is expected to strengthen rapidly over the next two days.
The National Hurricane Center expects Isaias to become a hurricane by Thursday and approach the northern Gulf Coast on Friday.
Latest news on Isaias
As of 4 a.m. Wednesday, Isaias had maximum sustained winds of 40 mph. The storm was about 580 miles southwest of the mouth of the Mississippi River, moving east to northeast at 8 mph.
Tropical storm force winds extended up to 45 miles from the center.
Isaias is expected to continue moving east-northeast on Wednesday, then turn northeast and north on Thursday and Friday. Its predicted trajectory will take it north of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula on Thursday before approaching the northern Gulf Coast on Friday.
Hurricane likely later Wednesday
No coastal watches or warnings were in effect as of 4 a.m. Wednesday. However, the National Hurricane Center said hurricane watches would likely be needed for part of the northern Gulf Coast later today.
Residents of southeastern Louisiana and the northern Gulf Coast should monitor the storm closely.
Heavy rain and flooding possible
From Friday through the weekend, Isaias could bring 3 to 6 inches of rain, with localized totals up to 10 inches, to parts of the northern Gulf Coast from far southeastern Louisiana to the Florida Panhandle.
These amounts are a regional forecast and do not mean that every community will receive the same amount of rain. The track of the storm will help determine where the heaviest precipitation will develop.
Flash flooding, street flooding and isolated river flooding will be possible.
Dangerous surf and rip currents are also expected along the Gulf Coast late this week.
What you need to know locally
Friday and Saturday are WDSU’s Early Warning Days due to the potential for significant weather impacts.
The track and strength of the storm will determine local conditions. Residents should review their hurricane plans, check supplies and follow updates from WDSU First Warning Weather and the National Hurricane Center.
The NHC’s next full advisory is scheduled for Wednesday at 10 a.m.
Hurricane hunters are expected to study the system today, providing valuable data that should help refine forecasts.
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