Gulf of Mexico Depression Expected to Strengthen into Hurricane Isaias, Threatening US Coast

Tropical Depression Nine has formed in the southwestern Gulf of Mexico and is forecast to intensify into Tropical Storm Isaias, then a Category 2 hurricane. It is projected to approach the US northern Gulf Coast, from Louisiana to the Florida Panhandle, by October 9. The system poses risks of dangerous wind, storm surge, and heavy rainfall, with coastal watches potentially issued today.