Here is a quick breakdown regarding Invest 91L…
WHAT: The National Hurricane Center has increased the chance of tropical development to 70% during the next two days (for more info on what “tropical development” means, check this out: http://nickelblock.com/?p=27606)
But the overall forecast hasn’t changed much for our area. This is still anticipated to be a weaker storm system as it moves our way with a lot of rain.
The forecast two days ago was for up to four inches of rain with this system – regardless of what it is named – and some gusty wind. And that is still the forecast based on all of the available data.
This image is courtesy the College of Dupage Meteorology GOES-16 page and displayed via GIPHY
WHEN: The timeline still looks like the rain beginning sometime between Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday afternoon and ending by Thursday afternoon.
WHERE: The image below highlights the area where the system could develop, but not where it will go. Right now that forecast is still a bit up in the air. But landfall is most likely between Pensacola, Florida and Lake Charles, Louisiana.
I know that is a wide net, but because it hasn’t developed yet, forecasts for where it may go are difficult to nail down.
WHY: Upper level winds are easing, and the waters of the Gulf are very warm. So that will help this storm develop even though it hasn’t yet.
HOW: How should you prepare? Check your hurricane preparedness kit, make sure you have enough water and food and meds for everyone that needs it for up to two weeks. Do I think this storm will be bad enough to knock out power and leave everyone without water for two weeks? No. But prepare for the worst, and hope for the best.
Also take time to clear out any storm drains for low lying areas that collect water when it rains heavily. Make sure your gutters are clear, too. Also check for shrubs and branches near windows and trim those up, too.
