Tropical Depression Two strengthens, expected to become Tropical Storm Bertha

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA (WINK) — Tropical Depression Two continues to slowly organize over the northeastern Gulf Monday morning. The Weather Authority continues to monitor this system as it treks slowly to the northwest. While the system poses no direct threat to Southwest Florida, it will continue to create rough surf, dangerous rip currents, and breezy conditions along area beaches.

As of the National Hurricane Center's 11 a.m. advisory, the center of Tropical Depression Two was located about 120 miles south of Panama City, Florida. Maximum sustained winds are now at 35 mph as the depression continues drifting northwest at 3 mph. Gradual strengthening is expected today, and the National Hurricane Center forecasts the depression will become Tropical Storm Bertha later today.

A Tropical Storm Watch remains in effect for the Florida Panhandle as tropical storm conditions are possible beginning later today. A Tropical Storm Watch has also been issued for the coasts of Mississippi and Louisiana. Additional watches and warnings are likely to be issued farther west over the next day or two as the forecast track shifts toward Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and eventually Texas.

In addition, a Storm Surge Watch has been issued for the Gulf Coast stretching from the Alabama/Florida border to the mouth of the Mississippi River.

Although Southwest Florida remains well removed from the center of the storm, the system's broad circulation continues to send long-period swells toward the Gulf Coast. As a result, a high risk of dangerous rip currents will continue along area beaches, while boaters should expect rougher seas and choppy Gulf waters.

Forecast confidence in the system's intensity remains somewhat lower than average. Dry air and moderate wind shear are expected to limit strengthening, although the National Hurricane Center still forecasts the depression to gradually intensify while it remains over the warm Gulf waters.

The next update from the National Hurricane Center will be issued at 2 p.m. this afternoon.