Delta expected to hit the Gulf Coast Friday as a hurricane

Tropical Storm Delta is forecast to reach the Gulf Coast as a hurricane late this week, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Delta is expected to hit the Cayman Islands late Monday or Tuesday and impact Western Cuba Tuesday.

As the storm continues its northwest path through the warmer waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the conditions will allow for “significant strengthening.”

While there is large uncertainty in the track and intensity forecasts at these time ranges, there is an increasing risk of dangerous storm surge, wind and rainfall hazards along the coast from Louisiana to the western Florida Panhandle. Residents in these areas should monitor the progress of Delta and check for updates to the forecast during the week.