The primary risks associated with Tropical Storm Bertha include damaging winds, localized flooding, and storm surges of up to 4 feet along the Gulf Coast. Coastal communities in Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi are particularly vulnerable, with parks, piers, and low-lying roads already closed. While the storm is expected to weaken steadily, heavy rainfall could exacerbate flooding in areas still recovering from previous storms. Extreme heat warnings in southern Louisiana add to the challenges faced by residents.