Latest Update On The Gulf Coast Tropical Threat

TROPICAL UPDATE: Tropical Depression 14 this morning is about 100 miles east of Chetumal Mexico, and is moving slowly northward. It is expected to become Tropical Storm Michael later today or tonight.

*Michael is now forecast to become a hurricane Tuesday night or Wednesday; NHC projects landfall somewhere on the Florida Panhandle coast Wednesday.

*Storm surge, rainfall, and wind impacts are possible over portions of the Gulf Coast by mid-week, although it is too soon to specify the exact location and magnitude of these impacts.

*The worst impact in terms of storm surge and flooding will be near and to the right (east) of the point of landfall. At this time it looks like the Alabama coast will be on the “good” west side of the circulation with an offshore flow. But remember, this could change.

*Michael will not stall; it is forecast to move steadily northeast after landfall, and by Thursday the system should be near the Georgia/South Carolina border, with much improved weather on the Gulf Coast.

*For inland parts of Alabama, the heaviest rain will most likely come over the southeast counties of the state Wednesday. Cooler, drier air rolls into the state as Michael moves northeast Thursday and Friday.

*The weather looks mostly dry and pleasant for the National Shrimp Festival in Gulf Shores Thursday through Sunday.

*Dry, pleasant weather is also likely for race weekend at Talladega, and homecoming festivities at the University of Alabama. Highs in the 70s, lows in the 50s.

*Remember, we are in the early stages of this tropical system, and the forecast could easily change!!

Tags: michael

Category: Alabama's Weather, Tropical