An organizing cluster of storms over the western Caribbean east of Central America is expected to gradually develop into a named storm over the next day or two and could quickly strengthen into a formidable hurricane as it accelerates toward the northeastern Gulf Coast - including parts of the Florida panhandle and Big Bend - by late Thursday into early Friday.
The next name on the list is Helene.
Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine forthcomingOn Monday morning, the National Hurricane Center indicated watches or warnings would be required for parts of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula and western Cuba in the hours ahead, which will trigger a full suite of official forecast products, including the first forecast cone, for newly designated Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine by 11 AM ET.
Our most reliable intensity guidance suggests a significant hurricane threat mounting as the strengthening system encounters a deep pool of warm water over the east-central Gulf of Mexico by mid-week. It's increasingly likely that a major (Category 3 or stronger) hurricane will threaten parts of north Florida or its sweeping Big Bend before the work week is done.
Residents from Mobile to Tampa especially should check back frequently on the forecasts this week. Those along Florida's entire west coast will also need to monitor the looming storm's path, as even a glancing blow could deliver heavy rain and significant coastal impacts.
