Chances for tropical trouble in the Gulf increase

The tropics are heating up in the Gulf of Mexico. The National Hurricane Center has officially bumped up the odds that a tropical depression could form in the region shortly, and forecasters at 205focus.com are advising residents across south Alabama to keep a close watch on the situation.

Rising Odds for Development

As of Saturday afternoon, the system holds a 40 percent probability of developing into a tropical depression within the next seven days, an increase from the 30 percent outlook provided on Friday. A broad area of low pressure has emerged in the eastern Gulf, though current observations show disorganized showers and storms with no tropical-storm-force winds at this time.

Tracking the System

While gradual development is possible over the coming days, meteorologists expect the system to maintain a slow track toward the north or north-northeast. An Air Force Reserve reconnaissance aircraft is on standby to investigate the system on Sunday if conditions warrant a closer look.

Heavy Rainfall Expected

Regardless of its official classification, the system is expected to act as a significant rainmaker for the Southeast. The National Hurricane Center warned that interests across the Florida Gulf coast, southern Alabama, and southwestern Georgia should remain vigilant. The weather service projects that parts of Florida could see between 6 and 8 inches of rainfall over the next several days. The system is not currently expected to reach hurricane intensity.