Tropical development possible in Gulf of Mexico

A broad area of low pressure over the southwestern Gulf of Mexico is becoming more organized, with a tropical depression potentially developing by the middle of the week.

The system, designated AL92, is producing disorganized showers and thunderstorms. Environmental conditions are becoming increasingly favourable for gradual development.

The system is expected to drift eastward over the next couple of days before turning north. It is too early to determine what impacts, if any, the system could have along the northern Gulf Coast.

The National Hurricane Center puts the chance of tropical development at 60 per cent over the next 48 hours and 80 per cent over the next seven days.

Those along the northern Gulf Coast are advised to monitor the system as it develops.