Archive · 7 Oct 2026
Isaias Could Strengthen Into Hurricane Before Gulf Coast Landfall
A storm called Isaias is moving through the Gulf of Mexico.
It began as Tropical Depression Nine and was upgraded to a tropical storm.
Forecasters think it could become a hurricane and may grow as strong as Category 2.
It could reach the northern Gulf Coast on Friday.
The exact path and strength can still change.
The storm may bring strong winds, lots of rain, coastal flooding and storm surge.
Alabama could also face high surf and tornadoes.
Florida's governor declared an emergency in 25 counties.
People along the Gulf Coast are being told to follow weather updates and prepare.
The National Hurricane Center upgraded Tropical Depression Nine to Tropical Storm Isaias early Wednesday.
Forecasters expect Isaias to become a hurricane, potentially reaching Category 2 strength with winds around 110 mph.
The storm could reach the northern Gulf Coast Friday, with landfall possible later Friday or Friday night.
Potential impacts include strong winds, heavy rain, storm surge, flooding and, in Alabama, possible tornadoes.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency in 25 counties on October 6 as the storm approached.
- Who
- Tropical Storm Isaias; the National Hurricane Center is tracking and forecasting the storm, and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared an emergency.
- What
- Isaias may strengthen into a hurricane and could bring hazardous weather to the northern Gulf Coast.
- When
- It was upgraded early Wednesday; a possible Gulf Coast arrival is forecast for Friday, with landfall possible Friday or Friday night. Florida declared an emergency on October 6.
- Where
- The storm formed in the western Gulf of Mexico and may affect the northern Gulf Coast, including parts of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida.
- Why
- Forecasters warn of potential strong winds, heavy rainfall, storm surge, flooding and other hazardous conditions as the storm approaches.
Current Situation
Forecast Risks
Storm status and intensity
Current Situation
The system has been upgraded to Tropical Storm Isaias.
Forecast Risks
Forecasters say it could strengthen into a hurricane, potentially Category 2, before weakening slightly near the coast.
Track and landfall
Current Situation
Isaias is moving through the Gulf of Mexico, and its strength and track are still developing.
Forecast Risks
Forecasts indicate it could reach the northern Gulf Coast Friday, with landfall possible later Friday or Friday night.
- Current status
- Tropical Storm Isaias, upgraded from Tropical Depression Nine early Wednesday
- Forecast intensity
- Could become a Category 2 hurricane, with maximum winds around 110 mph
- Possible arrival
- Northern Gulf Coast on Friday; landfall possible Friday or Friday night
- Potential impacts
- Strong winds, heavy rain, storm surge and flooding; Alabama could also face high surf and tornadoes
- Florida emergency declaration
- Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency in 25 counties on October 6
- Potentially affected areas
- Parts of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, the Florida Panhandle and northern Florida
- Seasonal significance
- Could become the first hurricane of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season
