Tropical Storm Isaias Flooding Threat: Up to 10 Inches Possible Along Gulf Coast

Tropical Storm Isaias is expected to bring a growing flooding, wind and tornado threat to parts of the northern Gulf Coast beginning Friday and continuing into Saturday.

Forecasters say Isaias could produce 3 to 6 inches of rain from southeastern Louisiana to the Florida Panhandle, with localized totals potentially exceeding 10 inches.

Flash flooding, urban flooding and isolated river flooding will be possible, especially in areas that receive repeated bands of heavy rain.

Hurricane Watches Expected

Isaias currently has maximum sustained winds of around 40 mph and is forecast to strengthen rapidly, potentially becoming a hurricane by Thursday before approaching the northern Gulf Coast.

Hurricane watches are expected to be issued for portions of the Gulf Coast as forecasters gain more confidence in the storm’s track, timing and intensity.

Tornado Threat Could Increase Saturday

As Isaias approaches the coast and moves inland, a tornado threat is expected to develop, particularly on the eastern side of the storm.

A few tornadoes could occur Saturday across parts of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, the Florida Panhandle and eventually Georgia.

Residents across the northern Gulf Coast should continue monitoring forecast updates and be prepared for heavy rain, flooding, damaging winds, storm surge and tornadoes.

This is a developing weather situation.