Watches have been issued for Tropical Storm Ida, which is expected to be a major hurricane as it approaches the Gulf Coast.
From the National Hurricane Center:
Reports from Air Force and NOAA reconnaissance aircraft indicate that the maximum sustained winds have increased to near 65 mph
with higher gusts. Additional strengthening is forecast today and Ida is expected to be a hurricane when it nears western
Cuba later today. Steady to rapid strengthening is expected when Ida moves over the southeastern and central Gulf of Mexico over the
weekend, and Ida is expected to be a major hurricane when it approaches the northern Gulf coast.
Watches will be updated and warnings issued as the storm gets closer to the Gulf Coast.
CURRENT WATCHES.
A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for...
* Mississippi/Alabama border to the Alabama/Florida border.
A Hurricane Watch is in effect for...
* Cameron, Louisiana to the Mississippi/Alabama border
* Lake Pontchartrain, Lake Maurepas, and Metropolitan New Orleans
A Storm Surge Watch is in effect for...
* Sabine Pass to Alabama/Florida border
* Vermilion Bay, Lake Borgne, Lake Pontchartrain, Lake Maurepas, and
Mobile Bay
Photo: National Hurricane Ceter