Tropical storm warning for Alabama as stronger Bertha moves closer

Tropical Storm Bertha, the second named storm of the 2026 Atlantic season, is gaining strength as it moves toward the Gulf Coast. As of Tuesday, the system packed sustained winds of 60 mph, prompting ongoing tropical storm warnings for the Alabama coast.

Storm Path and Intensity

The National Hurricane Center reports that as of 10 a.m. CDT, the center of Bertha was positioned roughly 145 miles southeast of Mobile, tracking north-northwest at 5 mph. While the storm is not expected to make landfall in Alabama, it remains a threat to the coast. Experts believe the storm has reached its peak intensity, with wind shear expected to keep it from developing into a hurricane.

Coastal Impacts

Residents along the northern Gulf Coast should prepare for potential coastal flooding, dangerous rip currents, and bouts of heavy rainfall. The National Weather Service in Mobile anticipates the storm will make its closest approach to the Alabama shoreline on Wednesday. Most of the system's most intense winds and rain are currently shunted to the south and east over the Gulf, with tropical storm-force winds extending about 90 miles from the center.

What to Expect

While north and central Alabama are likely to remain largely unaffected, coastal areas could see 1-3 inches of rain. Forecasters warn that rain bands associated with Bertha may bring brief, torrential downpours. The timing for the highest potential winds is currently projected for late tonight into Wednesday morning in Alabama. Though the current forecast track shows the storm skirting the coast, residents are encouraged to stay alert, as minor shifts in the path could lead to changes in local impacts.