LIVE BLOG: Tropical Storm or Hurricane Helene Likely to Develop in Gulf of Mexico

Millions of people living along the U.S. Gulf Coast from Louisiana to Florida are being urged to prepare as Invest 97L becomes better organized. The system is expected to strengthen into Tropical Storm or Hurricane Helene as it moves into the Gulf of Mexico in the coming days.

Invest 97L, currently in the Caribbean, is under close watch by TNW News Operations Department SMS Hurricane Division, and forecasters warn that conditions are favorable for its development. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is running specialized computer models to gather data on the system, which could significantly impact Gulf Coast communities.

What Is an "Invest" During Hurricane Season?

The term "invest" is a technical designation used by the NHC to assist in running models and forecasts for tropical disturbances that have the potential to develop into more significant storms.

Latest Updates on Invest 97L:

• Development chances: As of Monday, Invest 97L has a high likelihood of strengthening into a tropical depression or tropical storm within the next 48 hours.
• Heavy rainfall: The NHC states that "regardless of development, this system is expected to produce heavy rains over portions of Central America during the next several days."
• Areas to watch: Communities in the northwestern Caribbean, Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico, and western Cuba are advised to monitor the system closely, with watches and warnings potentially being issued soon.

Track and Impacts for Gulf Coast: Invest 97L is forecasted to move into the Gulf of Mexico later this week, where conditions favor further strengthening. Potential impacts include storm surge, heavy rain, and strong winds affecting the northeastern Gulf Coast, including the Florida Panhandle and parts of Florida's west coast.

"Although it's too early to pinpoint exact impacts, residents in these areas should prepare for possible significant effects and ensure hurricane plans are ready," the NHC advises.

Where Could Invest 97L Go?

There are multiple factors influencing the potential track and strength of the storm. While there is general agreement in weather models, the specifics will determine where and how hard the storm hits.

Potential landfall: The system could make landfall as Tropical Storm or Hurricane Helene on Thursday or Thursday night, with the areas between Louisiana and Florida most at risk.

Stay Informed

The TNW News blog and TNW News Operations Department SMS Hurricane Division will provide continuous updates as the situation develops. Now is the time for Gulf Coast residents to review their hurricane plans and remain alert to further updates on the system's development.