Tropical Depression Forms in Gulf, Potential Storm Bertha Could Impact Gulf Coast
A tropical depression has formed in the Gulf of Mexico, according to the National Hurricane Center. This system, located off the coast of Florida, is expected to bring high winds and heavy rains to the Gulf Coast, including Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. While the depression could develop into a tropical storm, named Bertha, forecasters suggest that Saharan dust and strong wind shear may prevent it from becoming a hurricane. The depression currently has maximum sustained winds below 39 mph, but if it strengthens, it could reach tropical storm status with winds between 39-73 mph.