Another day, another update on Investigation 99L. Investigation 99L is still alive and moving to the WNW towards the Florida Straits and the Gulf of Mexico. While it is still disorganized, it is moving into an area of very warm ocean temperatures and less wind shear, so chances of developing into a tropical depression have improved slightly. Heavy rain and gusty winds are expected in south Florida regardless of the “official” status of 99L, but after it moves into the Gulf it could strengthen. The map below shows that predictions of where it will go once it reaches the Gulf are all over the place, which is typical for a weak system, since the models aren’t able to get a good handle on the storm. Because of the uncertainty in the path and development of the storm, it is too early to make any decisions about Labor Day plans, but if you have plans anywhere along the Gulf for the next week into Labor Day weekend, you will want to keep an eye on this system. Also note that there are several other areas that the National Hurricane Center is watching for signs of development, including the next wave just coming off of Africa.
