The National Hurricane Center says there is an increasing chance of a tropical storm or hurricane developing in the Gulf of Mexico this week.

KEY MESSAGES:

1. The system is forecast to become a tropical storm on Monday as it moves northwestward to northward near or along the western Gulf of Mexico coast. Tropical Storm Watches have been issued for a portion of northeastern Mexico and additional watches may be needed for the southern Texas coast tonight.

2. The system is forecast to become a hurricane before it reaches the northwestern Gulf Coast by the middle of the week. While it is too soon to pinpoint the exact location and magnitude of impacts, the potential for life-threatening storm surge and damaging winds are increasing for portions of the Upper Texas and Louisiana coastlines beginning Tuesday night. Hurricane and Storm Surge Watches will likely be issued for a portion of that area on Monday, and residents should ensure they have their hurricane plan in place.

3. Potential Tropical Cyclone Six is expected to bring heavy rainfall and the risk of flash flooding from the coast of far northeast Mexico into portions of coastal Texas and Louisiana through Thursday.

Weather Resources:

Road Information:

Emergency Resources:

Utility Information: