Alabamians Should Stay Alert: Rising Chance of Tropical Development

We have been monitoring conditions for a possible tropical development for several days. Within the next day or so, a low-pressure area is anticipated to develop over the western Caribbean Sea.

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Now, forecasters are indicating there is a strong chance of a tropical storm or hurricane that could form. The formation chance through 7 days is now at a high level of 70 percent.

The Weather Channel said, "Interests along the entire U.S. Gulf Coast should continue to monitor the situation closely and stay updated on how the forecast unfolds in the days ahead."

"Environmental conditions appear favorable for the gradual development of this system during the next several days," said the National Hurricane Center. "A tropical depression is likely to form while the system moves slowly northward across the northwestern Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico through the end of the week."

What Do the Models Say?

James Spann, ABC 33/40, and Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa Chief Meteorologist said the "Highest landfall probabilities are over the Florida Panhandle. But, understand ensemble members show landfall potential anywhere from the Alabama/Mississippi border to Fort Myers. Most members are somewhere between Pensacola Beach and Apalachicola."

Is a Hurricane Out of the Question?

"It's certainly possible," said The Weather Channel. "Oceanic heat content is one favorable ingredient for intensification, and the map below shows there is plenty of deep, warm water in the northwest Caribbean and parts of the Gulf of Mexico."