Turbo Tropics: Twin Storms in the Gulf as Hurricane Season Continues

Depression Marco

Monday Evening Update (8/24):

Although Marco was recently downgraded from a Category 1 hurricane to a tropical storm, and now a depression, it still remains a threat to parts of the Gulf Coast. Heavy rainfall, storm surge and gusty winds are expected along the Gulf Coast states. Marco is expected to arrive early Monday evening, with continuing rotation off of the Louisiana coast, with Alabama and Florida feeling much of the impacts.

Radar and satellite images confirm the precipitation from Marco is more towards the east, away from the center of the low pressure area. There are currently tornado watches and warnings out for parts of Florida and South Carolina. These are expected to remain off and on throughout the evening.

Tropical Storm Laura

Monday Evening Update (8/24):

Tropical Storm Laura is a substantial threat to the United States coastline as the system begins moving off of the coast of Cuba tonight. Life threatening flash flooding is a risk to Cuba, with the possibility of mudslides as well. In addition, the Florida Keys are forecast to see tropical storm conditions this evening. Strengthening is expected as Laura moves across warm Gulf waters with very low wind shear to disrupt the formation of the storm. This storm is expected to make landfall as a category 2, but there is certainly potential for Laura to be a category 3.

Image Credit: NOAA National Hurricane Center

Laura is expected to make landfall Wednesday night into Thursday morning, with the cone of uncertainty for the storm path stretching across the central Gulf states with Louisiana in the middle. Hurricane conditions are possible reaching from Texas to Louisiana beginning late Wednesday. Hurricane watches have been announced for the majority of the coast line in Louisiana as well as mass evacuations. If you are in the immediate or eventual path of either storm, stay informed and check local weather and emergency declarations to stay safe.