Tropical Depression 14 forecast to become a hurricane, one of two possible named storms in Gulf

HOUSTON — We’re reaching the peak of hurricane season and there are two systems the National Hurricane Center is keeping an eye on, and so are we.

Tropical Depression Fourteen formed on Thursday, and a new forecast has it intensifying into a hurricane before landfall somewhere along the Gulf coast early next week. 

Right now, the depression is close to becoming a tropical storm. There is a hurricane watch and tropical storm warning issued for portions of the eastern  Yucatan Peninsula.

It’s expected to strengthen over the northwestern Caribbean Sea through Saturday and should produce tropical-storm-force winds and heavy rain over parts of the coast of Nicaragua and Honduras through Friday. According to the National Hurricane Center, it could be at hurricane strength when it gets to the Yucatan Peninsula late Saturday.

It’s expected to move into the Gulf of Mexico on Sunday as a tropical storm before strengthening back into a hurricane on Monday morning.

The storm is then forecast to hit somewhere on the Gulf coast on Tuesday night.

There is still a long way to go for this storm and there is still uncertainty in the models.

The forecast for newly designated Tropical Depression 13 has a gradual strengthening over the next several days.

The northern Leeward Islands, as well as the Virgin Island and Puerto Rico could experience tropical storm conditions Friday night and Saturday.

Both systems are expected to enter the Gulf of Mexico early next week.

The next names on the Tropical List are “Laura” and “Marco.”

It’s way too early to know the exact intensity and track these two systems will take. Regardless, we’re in a very active hurricane season, so it’s a good idea to know what you’ll need if a storm was approaching.

Here is a list of important items you should have at home or take with you if you evacuate:

• Water – at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3-7 days; also fill bathtub and other containers; Gator Aid is good to fend off dehydration
• Food – at least enough for 3-7 days; non-perishable packaged or canned food; juices; foods for infants or elderly family members; snack foods; food for special diets
• Non-electric can opener
• Cooking tools, fuel
• Paper plates and cups, plastic utensils
• Bedding: Blankets, Pillows, etc.
• Clothing
• Rain gear
• Sturdy shoes
• First Aid Kit, Medicines, Prescription Drugs
• Toilet paper, paper towels, trash bags
• Toiletries, hand sanitizer, hygiene items, moisture wipes, dry shampoo
• Flashlight, batteries, lantern
• Radio: Battery operated and NOAA weather radio
• Telephones: Fully charged cell phone with extra battery; chargers; traditional (not cordless) telephone set
• Cash (with some small bills) and Credit Cards: Banks and ATMs may not be available for extended periods
• Important documents: Place in a waterproof container or watertight resealable plastic bag: Should include insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, prescriptions, etc.
• Tools: Keep a set with you during the storm
• Gas: Fill up your vehicles several days before landfall is expected; Gas stations could lose power during a storm and supply trucks may not be able to reach the area
• Pet care items: Proper identification, immunization records, medications, ample supply of food and water; a carrier or cage; muzzle and/ or leash
• Bleach without lemon or any other additives
• Fire extinguisher
• Mosquito repellent
• Keys
• Toys, books and games for children
• Duct tape
• Cell Phone charging stations – locations where you can charge mobile devices