Timeline: When you will see first impacts of Tropical Storm Bertha in the Southeast
Tropical Storm Bertha formed in the Gulf of America. Meteorologists expect the system to impact the northern Gulf Coast with heavy rain, gusty winds, and storm surge. Tropical Storm Watches currently span from the Florida panhandle to southeastern Louisiana. Residents in these areas should prepare for deteriorating weather conditions as the storm tracks westward.
Conditions will intensify starting Tuesday. Bertha will sit about 100 miles south of Pensacola in the morning. While parts of the northern Gulf Coast will see a mix of sun and clouds early, scattered thunderstorms will arrive throughout the day. Gusty winds between 25 and 35 mph are likely north and east of the storm center. By Tuesday afternoon, the system turns west toward the Alabama coastline.
Tuesday night brings the peak of the storm for the Florida panhandle and Alabama coast. Forecasters project wind gusts reaching 50 mph. While freshwater flooding remains a localized concern, the primary threat is storm surge. Water levels could rise as high as 4 feet above normally dry ground in certain locations. Most coastal areas should anticipate between 1 and 2 feet of surge, leading to coastal flooding.
Wednesday marks the approach toward the Louisiana and Mississippi coastlines. Cities including Gulfport, Biloxi, and New Orleans will experience increasing winds throughout the day. Landfall is expected by Wednesday afternoon or night. Strong winds aloft will likely displace much of the heavy rain over the water, limiting inland totals.
By Thursday, the remnants of Bertha will continue tracking west toward Texas. The system will likely weaken after its interaction with land. Current models indicate that the storm will not produce heavy rainfall for parts of Texas still recovering from recent flooding. Residents should monitor local alerts for updates as the storm progresses.