Developing tropical system could impact Gulf Coast next week
Summary
Tropical Depression 9 has the potential to develop into a major storm that could impact the U.S. next week.
Key Highlights
Threats: Extreme wind gusts, heavy downpours, storm surges, flooding, property damage, mudslides, power outages
Areas affected: Cuba, Jamaica, U.S. Gulf Coast
When: Friday, September 23 - Thursday, September 29
Tropical Depression 9 Threatens
Accuweather meteorologists are closely monitoring Tropical Depression 9, currently located in the Caribbean Sea, for potential impacts to the US next week. The storm poses the most significant threat to the U.S. than any Atlantic storm so far this hurricane season. Conditions are favorable in the Caribbean Sea for the storm to strengthen and become a hurricane.
Western Cuba could see hurricane-force winds of 111 - 129 mph that will cause widespread damage and long-lasting power outages.
Western Cuba could see the heaviest rainfall, up to 16 inches with an AccuWeather Local StormMax of 20 inches. These heavy downpours would lead to flash flooding and mudslides.
Because of several environmental factors, there remains some uncertainty as to the storm track heading into next week. The strong system is more likely to turn to the north, bringing the storm, and its impacts into Florida.
Businesses along the Gulf Coast will need to keep a close eye on the forecast and should prepare for:
- Hazards that will likely impact your location and will cause business disruptions.
- Loss of Inventory due to flooding - If your warehouse is in a low-lying area, you should take precautions.
- Possible disruptions to ground logistics due to road closures, flooded roads, and power outages.
AccuWeather for Business is closely monitoring the tropical threat. REGISTER NOW for our Webinar on Friday, September 23 at 2 p.m. for an update on this tropical system. Join Lead Hurricane Forecaster Dan Kottlowski for a live update on the track and timing of the storm as it moves toward the U.S. Don Coash, Senior Account Executive and Meteorologist, preview the new tools AccuWeather For Business has developed to ensure you have the latest warnings at your fingertips, helping your organization plan for and stay ahead of dangerous conditions.