Gulf Storm Eyes Florida Panhandle, Could Dump 8 Inches Before Pushing West

Executive Briefing

• Forms in Gulf of Mexico with 30 mph sustained winds, forecast to strengthen into Tropical Storm Bertha
• Targets Florida Panhandle first, with Tropical Storm Watch already issued for the region
• Extends risk westward to Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas as track develops through midweek
• Delivers potential rainfall of 2–4 inches broadly, with isolated totals up to 8 inches sparking flash flood concerns
• Warm Gulf waters in mid-80s Fahrenheit fuel development despite limiting wind shear and dry air