A Tropical Depression forms over the Gulf of Mexico, threatening Florida with heavy rains and potential flooding. The National Hurricane Center has issued a Tropical Storm Watch for Florida, from the Ochlockonee River to the Alabama border, and a high chance of tropical storm development. This system, Invest 91L, is expected to strengthen and bring heavy rainfall, even if it doesn't fully develop into a tropical storm. AccuWeather Meteorologist Alex Duffus warns of flash flooding from slow-moving downpours. The Air Force Hurricane Hunters are scheduled to investigate the system. The depression is the second named storm of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, named Bertha. The peak of the hurricane season is approaching, with the most activity expected between mid-August and mid-October. The Atlantic basin includes the northern Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico. The National Hurricane Center has made changes to its symbols, with systems having a near 0% chance of development now depicted as gray X's. Tropical waves, which act as the seedlings for many tropical storms, are important contributors to major hurricanes. The 30-year average is for 14 named storms, seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes. Coastal residents are reminded that it only takes one hurricane making landfall to make a season active. The northern and eastern Gulf, the Carolina coast, and the western Caribbean remain areas of concern. The USA TODAY Network-Florida's Connect team provides weather alerts via text, keeping residents informed about the latest developments. As the hurricane season progresses, the focus shifts to preparedness and staying informed.
