Tropical Storm Bertha is expected to move along the northern Gulf Coast, bringing rain and coastal flooding to the region.

Tropical Storm Bertha is moving westward at 6 mph along the northern Gulf Coast, where it is expected to produce rain, wind, and storm surge. The National Hurricane Center reports that the storm's maximum sustained winds have decreased to near 50 mph, with gradual weakening forecast to continue through Friday. A tropical storm warning is currently in effect from the Bay/Gulf County line in Florida to Morgan City, Louisiana, including New Orleans and Lake Pontchartrain. A tropical storm watch covers the area from west of Morgan City to Cameron, Louisiana. Residents should prepare for total rainfall amounts of 1 to 4 inches, with isolated totals reaching 6 inches in some areas. Coastal regions may experience a storm surge of up to 4 feet. Meteorologists note that significant wind shear is likely to prevent the storm from developing into a major hurricane. While the storm is receiving a boost from above-average sea surface temperatures, the vertical wind shear is expected to keep the heaviest rain well to the south and southwest of the New Orleans region.

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