Potential Tropical Cyclone Six: Rising Threat of Hurricane-force Winds and Storm Surge
Update Time: 1:00 AM CDT (Central Daylight Time) on Monday, September 9, 2024.
As of early Monday, September 9, 2024, the National Hurricane Center issued an advisory for Potential Tropical Cyclone Six, which is currently advancing across the Gulf of Mexico. With sustained winds of 50 mph (85 km/h), this developing system poses an increasing risk of life-threatening storm surge and hurricane-force winds along parts of the Louisiana and Upper Texas coasts by mid-week.
Current Location and Movement of Potential Tropical Cyclone Six
At 1:00 AM CDT, the disturbance was positioned near latitude 22.0 North and longitude 94.7 West, approximately 320 miles (510 km) south-southeast of the mouth of the Rio Grande and 550 miles (890 km) south of Cameron, Louisiana. The system is slowly moving north-northwest at 5 mph (7 km/h), with a gradual northwestward to northward motion expected in the next 24 hours.
By late Tuesday, the disturbance will likely begin moving northeast at a faster pace, putting the system on track to approach the Louisiana and Upper Texas coasts by Wednesday.
Intensification Likely: Tropical Storm and Hurricane Warnings Expected
Currently, the disturbance exhibits maximum sustained winds of 50 mph (85 km/h), but further strengthening is anticipated. The system is expected to develop into a tropical storm later today, followed by significant intensification on Tuesday, with forecasters predicting it will escalate into a hurricane before making landfall along the U.S. Gulf Coast.
The National Hurricane Center has issued Tropical Storm Watches for areas along the northern coast of Mexico and the southern Texas coastline, stretching from Barra del Tordo to Port Mansfield. Hurricane, storm surge, and additional tropical storm warnings are likely to be issued for Louisiana and the Upper Texas coast later today.
Rainfall and Flooding Risks of Potential Tropical Cyclone Six
Heavy rainfall is expected to accompany the system, with storm totals of 4 to 8 inches predicted along the northeastern coast of Mexico, Texas, and Louisiana, with isolated amounts reaching 12 inches in some areas. This rainfall could result in flash and urban flooding, posing significant threats to life and property, particularly in low-lying regions.
Coastal Hazards: Storm Surge and Dangerous Surf
The system is also generating dangerous swells along the Gulf coast of Mexico, expected to extend into the northwestern Gulf of Mexico coast through mid-week. These life-threatening surf and rip currents are a growing concern for coastal communities. Minor coastal flooding could affect parts of Mexico as onshore winds strengthen.
Conclusion: A Critical Week Ahead for Gulf Coast Residents
As Potential Tropical Cyclone Six continues to develop, residents along the Texas and Louisiana coastlines should remain vigilant. The high risk of storm surge, heavy rainfall, and damaging winds makes this system a significant threat to the region. Preparations should be made now for the potential impacts of a hurricane by mid-week, with advisories being closely monitored for updated guidance.
For the latest storm updates and safety information, visit [hurricanes.gov]
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