03 Sep 2018 | 05:03 AM UTC
US: Tropical storm watches issued for Gulf Coast September 2 /update 1
National Hurricane Center issues tropical storm watches for Florida and the Gulf Coast September 2; storm expected to make landfall September 4
Event
At approximately 23:00 (EDT) on Sunday, September 2, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) issued tropical storm watches for parts of the Gulf Coast and Florida as a tropical disturbance continues to move towards the area. The system is located about 281 km (175 mi) east-southeast of the Florida Keys with maximum sustained winds at 45 km/h (30 mph). It is expected to become a tropical storm by the evening of Monday, September 3. Tropical storm watches cover parts of the central Gulf Coast from the Alabama-Florida state line towards Morgan City, Louisiana. It is expected to drop between 5-10 cm (2-4 in) of rain over the Florida Keys and southern Florida through Tuesday, September 4, before making landfall.
Context
Tropical cyclones and hurricanes in the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico are common from June through November.
Advice
Individuals present in the affected areas are advised to keep abreast of local weather forecasts, anticipate localized flooding and associated transportation disruptions, plan alternate routes, and adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.
