Tropical Storm Bertha Makes Landfall in Southern Louisiana
Tropical Storm Bertha made landfall in St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana, approximately 40 miles (65 kilometers) east of New Orleans, on Wednesday afternoon (July 22, 2026). The storm brought maximum sustained winds of 45 mph (72 kph) and tropical storm-force winds extending up to 160 miles (260 kilometers) from its center. Beaches from Florida to Mississippi were closed, and storm surges of up to 3 feet (1 meter) were reported in Louisiana and Alabama. Rainfall totals of 1 to 4 inches (3 to 10 centimeters) were forecast, with isolated higher amounts. Despite the strong winds, the heaviest rains remained offshore, reducing the risk of widespread flooding. Bertha is expected to weaken as it moves inland toward Texas by Friday.