Tropics update: Tropical Storm Fred winds at 40 MPH; Florida's west coast watching closely

HOUSTON — Tropical Storm Fred formed on Tuesday and as of Wednesday morning has max sustained winds at 40 mph.

It is not expected to be a problem for the Texas Coast or Houston area.

Fred is moving over Puerto Rico will weaken a little before it reenergizes and heads towards Florida.

As  of the 7 a.m. Wednesday update from the National Hurricane Center, winds were at 40 mph as Fred moved west-northwest at 16 mph.

We are beginning to move into the statistically ‘active’ part of the Atlantic hurricane season. It’s no surprise that things are getting busy out there. 

1. Tropical storm conditions are expected to begin in portions of the Dominican Republic this morning. Tropical storm conditions are possible in northern Haiti and the southeastern Bahamas by late today. 

2. Heavy rainfall could lead to flash, urban, and small stream flooding, along with possible rapid river rises and the potential for mudslides across the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic. The greatest threat for flooding impacts will be across eastern and southern Puerto Rico. 

3. There is a risk of wind and rainfall impacts elsewhere in portions of Hispaniola, the Bahamas, and Cuba during the next few days, although the forecast is more uncertain than usual since Fred is forecast to interact with Hispaniola today. Interests in these areas should monitor Fred’s progress and updates to the forecast. 

4. There is a risk of wind and rainfall impacts in Florida beginning Friday in the Keys and spreading northward through portions of the Peninsula and the Panhandle this weekend. However, it is too soon to determine the exact timing, location, and magnitude of any potential impacts. Interests throughout Florida should monitor Fred’s progress and check updates to the forecast.