Center tracking Gulf storm

Potential Tropical Disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico: What You Need to Know

A potential tropical disturbance is brewing in the Gulf, south of Texas. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is monitoring this closely as there is a possibility of intensification over the weekend and into next week.

"Environmental conditions seem favorable for gradual development early next week, as the system tracks slowly westward or west-northwestward." - NHC

• Location: Southwestern Gulf of Mexico, south of Texas.
• Development Chances: Low near 0% in 48 hours; 30% in 7 days.
• Weather Alerts: None specific to this system yet for Texas.

This system could bring much higher-than-average hurricane activity, as La Niña conditions are predicted to return. La Niña is characterized by cooler sea surface temps in the equatorial Pacific, influencing global weather patterns. It often means a more active Atlantic hurricane season, which can affect Texas.

Hurricane season: June 1 - Nov 30. Peak: mid-Sept. No hurricanes in the US this year so far.

NOAA predicts 17-25 named storms, with 4-7 becoming major hurricanes. Texans should stay alert, as landfall could bring heavy rain and flooding.

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References:

1. https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
2. https://www.noaa.gov/