New Tropical Depression Develops Near Cuba, Heading Towards Florida’s Big Bend Area

A hurricane watch has been issued for parts of Florida’s Big Bend and Nature Coast, as Tropical Depression Four forms off the coast of Cuba and moves towards the Gulf of Mexico, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC).

The projected track of the storm, which may develop into Tropical Storm Debby, has shifted slightly westward, increasing the distance between the “cone of uncertainty” and the southwest coast of Florida.

Meanwhile, a tropical storm warning now covers most of the west coast of the peninsula from East Cape Sable to Yankeetown, raising concerns about storm surge and heavy rainfall.

A hurricane watch is in effect from Yankeetown to the Aucilla River, including areas like Cedar Key, Horseshoe Beach, and Perry, which were impacted by Hurricane Idalia a year ago.

Tropical storm warnings indicate that tropical storm conditions are expected within 36 hours, while hurricane watches suggest that hurricane conditions are possible in the area and are typically issued 48 hours before tropical storm-force conditions arrive.

A tropical storm is characterized by organized cyclones with sustained winds ranging from 39 mph to 73 mph. Once the winds exceed 74 mph, it is classified as a hurricane.

Tropical Depression Four currently has maximum sustained winds of 35 mph, as per the NHC’s 11 a.m. advisory, and is expected to strengthen into a tropical storm later in the day.

The forecast anticipates that maximum sustained winds will reach 69 mph by the early morning of August 5.

The expected rainfall from the tropical cyclone has increased since August 2, with estimates ranging from five to 10 inches along portions of Florida’s coast and the southeastern U.S. coast. Some areas may experience up to 15 inches of rainfall.

The 11 a.m. advisory from the NHC also includes a storm surge warning for the coast from Aripeka to the mouth of the Aucilla River, with a storm surge watch in effect from the Aucilla River to Indian Pass.

Storm surges of two to four feet are expected in areas like Tampa Bay, Charlotte Harbor, and the coastline between Bonita Beach and Chassahowitzka, Florida.

An additional three to five feet of storm surge is forecasted between Chassahowitzka and the Aucilla River.

Moreover, rough swells are predicted to bring hazardous conditions along Florida’s Gulf Coast throughout the weekend.

On August 1, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency for over 50 counties and extended the order on August 2 to include seven more counties, covering all Gulf Coast and Panhandle counties.

The governor’s office announced several storm preparation updates on August 2, initiating proactive measures across various sectors, from law enforcement to healthcare.

Approximately 3,000 members of the Florida National Guard are prepared for response efforts, while the Florida State Guard has activated 70 members for response and recovery support, along with resources like shallow water vessels and search-and-rescue teams.

The Florida Department of Health is staging 90 ambulances to support emergency evacuations statewide, and the Florida Department of Transportation is collaborating with the Emergency Operations Center to make necessary preparations.

Additionally, Attorney General Ashley Moody’s office has activated the Florida price gouging hotline, and Florida’s Division of Emergency Management has elevated the State Emergency Operation Center to level one for coordinated efforts.