Tropical Storm Bertha Strengthens, Threatens Gulf Coast with Flooding
Tropical Storm Bertha is gradually intensifying in the northeastern Gulf of Mexico, bringing the potential for heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and coastal flooding to areas from Florida to Louisiana. The storm is expected to make landfall near southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi by late Wednesday night as a weak tropical storm. Despite near-record warm Gulf waters, Bertha's development is being hindered by dry air and wind shear, which have displaced its strongest thunderstorms to the southern half of its circulation. A tropical storm warning is in effect for coastal Alabama, Mississippi, and eastern Louisiana, while a tropical storm watch has been issued for parts of the Florida Panhandle and Louisiana. Rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches, with localized amounts up to 6 inches, are anticipated, potentially causing flash flooding in urban areas.