A potential tropical storm is currently forming in the Gulf of Mexico, with parts of Mexico and southern Texas under a tropical storm watch. The disturbance is expected to intensify into a full-fledged storm in the coming days, prompting the U.S. National Hurricane Center to issue warnings for cities along the coast of Louisiana and Texas.
The storm, which may be named Francine within the next 48 hours, is currently disorganized but is situated in an area with warm ocean temperatures reaching the low 90s. As it tracks towards the U.S. Gulf Coast, it will encounter even warmer ocean temperatures in the mid to upper 80s, providing favorable conditions for rapid organization and strengthening.
Forecasters anticipate that tropical storm force conditions could impact the Texas coastline by late Tuesday, with the storm potentially moving towards Louisiana by Wednesday. The system is expected to bring heavy rain, storm surge, and rough surf to the region, with rainfall totals of 4 to 8 inches and localized amounts up to 12 inches raising concerns about flash flooding.
Recent history shows that the Gulf Coast region has experienced several named storms, including hurricanes and tropical storms, in the past few years. Notable storms include Ida in 2021, Beta and Hannah in 2020, and a recent landfall by Nicholas earlier this season. If the developing system becomes Hurricane Francine and makes landfall on the Texas coastline, it would mark the first time in 16 years that Texas has seen two hurricanes in one season.
Residents in the potentially affected areas are advised to stay informed about the storm's progress and follow any evacuation orders or safety recommendations issued by local authorities. As the situation continues to evolve, meteorologists will provide updates on the storm's track and potential impacts on coastal communities.
