Tropical Depression 9 Strengthens Toward Florida: Storm Watches Issued as Imelda Looms
The National Hurricane Center has issued tropical storm watches along Florida’s east coast as Tropical Depression 9 (TD9) gathers strength in the Atlantic. The developing system is bringing widespread showers and thunderstorms to parts of the Caribbean and is expected to intensify into Tropical Storm Imelda within the next 24 hours.
National Hurricane Center Tracks TD9’s Movement
Meteorologists reported on Saturday morning that TD9 is moving northwest at approximately 6 mph with maximum sustained winds near 35 mph. Forecast models indicate that the depression will strengthen gradually, becoming a tropical storm before Sunday. The system’s center is located near eastern Cuba and the southeastern Bahamas, producing heavy rainfall and scattered thunderstorms.
Watches and Warnings in Effect
The National Hurricane Center has placed several areas under tropical storm watches and warnings due to the potential impacts of TD9.
Florida East Coast Watch
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Tropical storm watches extend from the Palm Beach/Martin County line north to the Flagler/Volusia County line.
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Residents in these areas are advised to monitor local forecasts and prepare for possible tropical storm conditions, including gusty winds and heavy rainfall.
Bahamas Warnings
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Central Bahamas: Cat Island, the Exumas, Long Island, Rum Cay, and San Salvador are under a tropical storm warning.
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Northwestern Bahamas: Eleuthera, New Providence, the Abacos, Berry Islands, Andros Island, and Grand Bahama Island are also under warnings.
Summary of Current Alerts
| Region | Status | Areas Affected |
|---|---|---|
| East Coast of Florida | Tropical Storm Watch | Palm Beach/Martin County line to Flagler/Volusia County line |
| Central Bahamas | Tropical Storm Warning | Cat Island, Exumas, Long Island, Rum Cay, San Salvador |
| Northwestern Bahamas | Tropical Storm Warning | Eleuthera, New Providence, Abacos, Berry Islands, Andros Island, Grand Bahama |
Possible Impacts on Florida’s Coastline
Forecast models suggest that Tropical Depression 9 could move along Florida’s coast just offshore. While its exact track remains uncertain, impacts may include:
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Strong winds capable of causing power outages.
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Heavy rainfall leading to localized flooding in low-lying areas.
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Dangerous surf and rip currents along beaches.
Residents along Florida’s east coast are urged to stay alert and review their hurricane preparedness plans as conditions could deteriorate quickly if TD9 strengthens further.
Hurricane Season 2025 Update
The Atlantic hurricane season spans from June 1 to November 30, with September typically being the most active month. Tropical Depression 9 is the latest system under observation, and meteorologists continue to monitor additional disturbances across the Atlantic basin.
El-Balad will provide continuous coverage of Tropical Depression 9 and its potential transition into Tropical Storm Imelda as updates from the National Hurricane Center become available.
