HIGH wind speeds and heavy rain is expected in different parts of the Gulf Coast as Tropical Storm Bertha may make landfall twice.

States along the United States’ Gulf Coast have been actively preparing for harsh weather conditions expected in the coming days.

Tropical Storm Bertha is expected to bring heavy rainfall to parts of the Gulf Coast

The storm will make landfall in parts of Louisiana and Mississippi on Wednesday

Tropical Storm Bertha has been slated to make landfall in parts of Louisiana and Mississippi today, with extreme weather anticipated to continue into Wednesday evening.

“A coastal flood warning is in effect for the Mississippi and Louisiana coastlines, where moderate coastal flooding is expected,” the National Hurricane Center said.

Sandbags have been provided to residents in Louisiana, Mississippi and Florida in an effort to stop potential flooding.

Meanwhile, the storm is also expected to make landfall for a second time in parts of Texas on Friday.

On Tuesday, forecasters recorded 60mph wind speeds from the storm, according to AccuWeather.

Tropical Storm Bertha has been expected to bring around one to four inches of rainfall in some areas along the Gulf Coast.

However, AccuWeather’s Local StormMax has anticipated 15 inches of rainfall in other areas, which could bring about isolated flash flooding, particularly in urban areas, according to the National Hurricane Center.

The Louisiana Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness encouraged residents to stay prepared as the storm makes landfall.

Residents filled sandbags to stop flooding damage from the storm

Sandbag fill-up stations were set up in Louisiana, Mississippi and Florida

Tropical Storm Bertha is expected to make landfall for a second time in Texas on Friday

Wind speeds from the storm could reach 50 to 60mph

“Strong winds could result in power outages. Check on friends or loved ones who may need assistance,” said GOHSEP Director Brigadier General Jason Mahfouz.

Parts of Florida are also experiencing heavy rainfall and possible flooding caused by Bertha.

In Louisiana, Terrebonne Parish President Jason Bergeron said that sandbags and “super sacks” were being placed in certain areas “to make sure they’re protected for this incoming storm.”

American Red Cross of Louisiana CEO Dr. Kenneth St. Charles warned that residents could lose electricity and face flooding in their neighborhoods, CBS Louisiana affiliate WWL reported.

Bertha may be downgraded to a tropical depression by the time it reaches Texas on Friday, forecasters said.

“Isolated areas of flash flooding remain possible through early Friday along the central to the western Gulf Coast from western Florida to southern Texas,” the National Hurricane Center said.

Source: https://www.the-sun.com/news/16730146/tropical-storm-bertha-forecast-landfall/