Tropical Storm Bertha advanced slowly toward the northern Gulf Coast on July 21, carrying expectations of heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and storm surge across multiple states in the region. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported that Bertha, the second tropical storm of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, was positioned approximately 70 miles from Panama City, Florida, moving north-northwest at 3 mph, with sustained winds of 60 mph and higher gusts.

Forecasters emphasized that the track and strength of Bertha remained uncertain, and although the storm was gaining power, it was not anticipated to escalate to hurricane status due in part to persistent wind shear disrupting its structure. The NHC noted that Bertha’s asymmetrical formation would likely concentrate rainfall and stronger winds on the storm’s southern side.

Rainfall was the primary concern, with the storm expected to produce 2 to 4 inches across the Gulf Coast from western Florida to the Middle Texas Coast, including southern Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Isolated amounts could reach up to 8 inches, raising alarms about potential flash flooding, particularly in urban areas. The NHC also predicted storm surge flooding of up to 4 feet from the mouth of the Mississippi River eastward to the Alabama-Florida border, posing additional risks to normally dry coastal and inland areas.

Alongside flooding, Bertha was expected to generate high winds and hazardous marine conditions. Tropical storm-force winds of 39 mph or more were forecasted within the warning zones along the northern Gulf Coast through July 22, accompanied by rough surf and dangerous rip currents. Swells originating from Bertha were already affecting parts of Florida and were projected to move westward, increasing threats to swimmers and small craft.

Meteorologist Ryan Truchelut of WeatherTiger described Bertha as a “low-grade tropical threat” for North Florida and the central Gulf Coast, characterizing its effects as comparable to a typical summer pattern of mixed sun and rain, apart from the direct coastal impacts.

Although Bertha was not expected to reach hurricane intensity, officials urged residents to prepare and stay informed. The National Weather Service highlighted the importance of recognizing evacuation zones and adhering to any evacuation orders, noting that storm surge and inland flooding remain the leading causes of hurricane-related fatalities. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) advised assembling an emergency kit with essential supplies such as water, nonperishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, cash, and a weather radio. Additionally, NOAA recommended having multiple channels for receiving warnings beyond phone alerts, including weather radios, television, and trusted weather applications.

Meanwhile, the broader Atlantic basin showed little tropical activity. Hurricane specialist Michael Lowry characterized the current conditions as “deafening crickets,” indicating a lull in storm development expected to last through the remainder of the month.