Tropical Storm Isaias forms; Gulf Coast faces hurricane threat

Isaias Forms in the Gulf:

The Atlantic hurricane season has been a dud so far in terms of hurricanes. However, new, this morning, we now have our 9th named storm of the season, tropical storm Isaias. While hurricane hunters are en route to investigate the system, satellite imagery this morning alone shows a healthy and well-organized tropical storm in the southwest Gulf. 

Over the next few days, attention will be focused on its path towards the Gulf Coast, where landfall is expected later this week. As of this morning, the National Hurricane Center indicates the system could reach the coast as a category 2 hurricane. However, with very warm gulf waters in its path, we may see further strengthening occur, giving Isaias a chance to become a major hurricane. 

 

Severe Potential:

The Storm Prediction Center is also monitoring this newly named tropical storm, highlighting portions of the Gulf Coast under a 15% severe weather risk. This is equivalent to a level 2 of 5 Slight Risk. The area at risk includes the western Florida Panhandle and parts of Alabama, where the threat for tornadoes and strong damaging winds is expected to increase as the tropical system makes landfall and pushes inland.