Jim Weber monitors potential tropical disturbance in the northeastern Gulf that may bring heavy rain to Florida.

Jim Weber, a meteorologist for FOX 13 Tampa Bay, is tracking a potential area of low pressure in the northeastern Gulf that has a 20% chance of tropical development over the next seven days. If the system organizes into a tropical storm, it will be named Bertha. While computer models are currently divided on the system's strength, it is expected to move northeastward over the weekend, potentially crossing northern Florida before reaching the Southeast coast. Regardless of whether the low pressure center develops into a named storm, it is expected to deliver much-needed rainfall to regions currently facing drought conditions. Jim Weber noted that Tampa is currently about 7.50 inches below average for yearly rainfall. The system will likely provide heavy downpours across Florida and parts of the Carolinas, with the potential for local flash flooding in urban areas. Meanwhile, a tropical wave off the coast of Africa is also being monitored, though it faces a hostile environment that will likely prevent it from affecting land.

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