Hurricane Ida Expected to Rapidly Intensify Ahead of Louisiana Landfall

After slamming Cuba, Ida moves toward Louisiana and Alabama

Hurricane Ida is forecast to rapidly intensify into a major hurricane as it draws closer to the northern Gulf Coast this weekend, where it will bring life-threatening storm surge, dangerous rainfall flooding, potentially catastrophic winds and tornadoes.

The red-shaded area denotes the potential path of the center of the tropical cyclone. It’s important to note that impacts (particularly heavy rain, high surf, coastal flooding, winds) with any tropical cyclone usually spread beyond its forecast path.

Ida is currently centered 440 miles southeast of New Orleans and is tracking northwest at just over 15 mph. Maximum sustained winds are 85 mph, making Ida a Category 1 hurricane.

Interests along the northern Gulf Coast from Louisiana to Alabama should monitor Ida’s progress closely and finish hurricane preparations on Saturday. Follow the advice of local officials if you are ordered to evacuate.

Source: The Weather Channel

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