Tropical Storm Bertha is expected to bring heavy rain and coastal flooding to the northern Gulf Coast through midweek.

Tropical Storm Bertha is moving northwest through the Gulf of Mexico, threatening to bring heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and life-threatening storm surges to the northern Gulf Coast. The National Hurricane Center reports that the storm, which currently carries sustained winds of 60 mph, is tracking toward southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi, where it may make landfall by late Wednesday. Forecasters warn of widespread rainfall totals between 2 and 4 inches, with isolated areas potentially receiving up to 8 inches. These totals may trigger flash flooding in urban areas, particularly near New Orleans. Additionally, a storm surge of 1 to 4 feet is expected along the coastlines of Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. While the storm is battling strong wind shear and dry air that may limit its intensity, it remains a significant weather system for the region. The Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority-East has activated its Emergency Operation Center to monitor evolving conditions and manage roadway closures. The storm is forecast to weaken into a tropical depression by Friday as it nears the Texas coast.

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