Tropical Depression Nine Forms in Gulf of Mexico, Projected to Become Hurricane

Tropical Depression Nine has formed in the southwestern Gulf of Mexico. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) reports it is expected to strengthen into Tropical Storm Isaias and could become the first hurricane of the 2026 season by late Friday. This system is projected to approach the northern Gulf Coast, prompting advisories for areas from the Florida Panhandle to Louisiana to monitor its progress closely.