FLORIDA, United States — Tropical Storm Bertha moved across northwestern Florida on Tuesday, bringing the threat of coastal flooding, heavy rainfall, and strong winds as it tracked westward along the Gulf Coast.
According to the US National Hurricane Center (NHC), Bertha was located about 90 miles (145 kilometres) southwest of Panama City, Florida, with maximum sustained winds of 60 mph. Forecasters expect the storm to gradually weaken beginning Wednesday.
Tropical storm warnings and watches remain in effect for portions of Florida and Louisiana as hazardous weather conditions continue to spread across the region.
The NHC warned that a combination of storm surge and high tide could flood normally dry coastal areas, while heavy rainfall is expected to increase the risk of flash flooding.
Bertha is forecast to dump 2 to 4 inches of rain, with isolated areas receiving up to 6 inches, from western Florida into southern Louisiana through Thursday. Urban communities are considered especially vulnerable to flash flooding.
Despite Bertha’s development, meteorologists continue to forecast a below-average Atlantic hurricane season this year due to the influence of El Niño, which typically suppresses hurricane formation in the Atlantic.
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. In an average year, it produces 14 named storms, seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes.
Tajay Suckoo Riding Up a Storm at Caymanas Park
