As expected, Alberto has formed in the Gulf of Mexico and is expected to impact the Southeast in the next few days. It is designated a subtropical storm because it has some characteristics that are different than a typical tropical storm, but will have the same types of impacts on us. The map below shows the current forecast path of the center of circulation, but keep in mind that we can see impacts, especially rain, far beyond the forecast cone. It can also occur long before tropical storm force winds arrive in your area. This is particularly true on the right side of the storm path, which puts parts of the Southeast squarely in the area of maximum impact from heavy rain. Since that rain is falling on top of already saturated soils, local flooding is likely, so drive carefully and protect yourself, your family, your animals and your farm from the impacts of the heavy rain plus some gusty winds.