Tropical Depression Nine May Become Hurricane Isaias, Gulf Coast Eyed

Duval County residents should monitor forecasts as Tropical Depression Nine, expected to be named Isaias, strengthens in the Western Gulf of Mexico. The system could make landfall along the Gulf Coast by late Friday into Saturday.

While Jacksonville and Northeast Florida face no direct threat, gusty winds, rough seas, and surf are possible through Thursday. These conditions could affect the St. Johns River and the Atlantic coast. Intermittent heavy rain is also possible and may intensify over the weekend, depending on the storm's track and strength.

The National Hurricane Center upgraded the system to tropical depression status Tuesday afternoon. Forecasters anticipate strengthening, with the storm expected to turn sharply northward late in the week. Landfall as a potential hurricane is projected near Pascagoula, Mississippi, and Mobile, Alabama, Friday night into Saturday, before accelerating north.

Meteorologists are closely watching the storm's development. Strong wind shear from the west/southwest across the Northern Gulf could limit its intensity, possibly creating a lopsided storm with heavier rain and stronger winds on its north and east sides. However, warm Gulf waters and an upper-level trough are expected to encourage development.

Residents along the Gulf Coast and throughout Florida should stay updated. A tornado risk exists east and north of the projected landfall area, potentially including much of Florida. A slow-moving cool front expected to stall from the Gulf to Florida could enhance rainfall across Florida and the Southeast U.S. over the next four to seven days, impacting areas from the beaches to Westside.