Tropical Storm Bertha Brings Heavy Rain and Flood Risks to Gulf Coast
• Tropical Storm Bertha is moving westward along the northern Gulf Coast as of Wednesday morning, July 22,
• According to the National Hurricane Center's 4 a.m. CDT advisory, the storm was located approximately 50 miles east-northeast of the mouth of the Mississippi River, with maximum sustained winds of 50 mph (80 km/h) and higher gusts. Bertha is expected to maintain its westward trajectory through Friday, July 24, with gradual weakening anticipated. Rainfall totals of 1-4 inches (25-100 mm), with isolated amounts up to 6 inches (150 mm), are forecast from western Florida to southern Texas, potentially causing flash flooding in urban areas. Additionally, storm surge could lead to inundation of up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) from the mouth of the Mississippi River to the Alabama-Florida border.
Impact & Risks
The central to western Gulf Coast, including areas from western Florida to southern Texas, is at risk of flash flooding due to heavy rainfall. Urban areas are particularly vulnerable. Coastal regions from the Mississippi River to the Alabama-Florida border may experience storm surge flooding of up to 4 feet (1.2 meters). Swells generated by Bertha are expected to create life-threatening surf and rip current conditions along the northern Gulf Coast. Tropical storm warnings are in effect for areas including New Orleans, Lake Pontchartrain, and regions westward to Morgan City, Louisiana. Watches extend further west to Cameron, Louisiana, and Lake Maurepas.
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