Bertha Eyes Gulf Coast, Promising Downpours and Flood Threats

Bertha, the season’s second named storm, strengthened over the Gulf and is forecast to bring tropical-storm conditions from the Florida Panhandle to southeastern Louisiana over the next several days. Forecasters expect heavy rain (2–4 inches, up to 6 inches in isolated spots), potential storm surge up to 4 feet, and flash flooding risks, with tropical storm warnings and watches in effect as the system tracks northwest toward landfall possible in southeast Louisiana midweek.