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Tropical Storm Bertha strengthens, threatens Gulf Coast with heavy rain, coastal flooding and squalls

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 19:56:06 -0400

Tropical Storm Bertha is strengthening along the northern Gulf as coastal communities in parts of Florida, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana brace for strong wind gusts, heavy rain and coastal flooding.

Bertha formed Monday in the northeastern Gulf, becoming the second named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season.

The storm is beginning to turn westward, and tropical storm conditions are spreading over portions of the Florida panhandle, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC).

HURRICANE SEASON 2026: THESE ARE THE STORM NAMES YOU'LL SEE THIS SEASON

According to the National Hurricane Center, Hurricane Hunter aircraft that flew into Bertha determined that the storm has continued to strengthen. As of Tuesday morning, it was about 145 miles southeast of Mobile, Alabama, with maximum sustained winds of 60 mph, and is moving north-northwest at just 3 mph.

WHAT IS A TROPICAL STORM?

Bertha strengthened from Tropical Depression Two and is expected to bring days of heavy rain to parts of the Gulf Coast.

A tropical storm is a type of tropical cyclone — a rotating, organized system of thunderstorms — with maximum sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph, making it stronger than a tropical depression.

Tropical Storm Warnings have been extended, and are in effect from the Bay-Gulf county line in Florida to the Terrebonne-Lafourche parish border in Louisiana, indicating that these areas could experience tropical storm conditions over the next 36 hours.

A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for New Orleans in anticipation of Tropical Storm Bertha.

WHAT HURRICANE AND TROPICAL STORM WATCHES AND WARNINGS MEAN

A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect from west of the Terrebonne-Lafourche parish Line to the Vermilion-Cameron parish line, including New Orleans, Lake Pontchartrain and Lake Maurepas.

Additionally, the NHC dropped a Storm Surge Watch that was in effect along the Gulf Coast for life-threatening flooding, but issued a Coastal Flood Warning for southeastern Louisiana and the Mississippi coast.

This means that there is less concern that Bertha will cause a sudden push of 2 to 4 feet of ocean water inland, but rather the flooding is expected to be more gradual, with up to 4 feet of water expected within the Flood Warning in low-lying coastal areas.

WHAT IS STORM SURGE?

Where is Tropical Storm Bertha headed?

According to the NHC, Bertha is forecast to move slowly west along the northern Gulf Coast, and is expected to make landfall in southeast Louisiana sometime Wednesday evening.

TIMELINE: WHEN YOU WILL SEE THE FIRST IMPACTS OF TROPICAL STORM BERTHA IN THE SOUTHEAST

The FOX Forecast Center said Bertha is a lopsided storm that will peak as a moderate tropical storm Tuesday, remaining well below hurricane strength.

"Its lopsided nature means most of the rain will fall on the southern side of the system — well off the coast," the Forecast Center said.

While there was some uncertainty about Bertha's track earlier this week, forecast models have come into much better agreement that the storm will move west over Louisiana.

HOW ARE HURRICANES RATED? THE SAFFIR-SIMPSON HURRICANE WIND SCALE EXPLAINED

From there, it remains to be seen whether Bertha will dissipate over Louisiana or if it redevelops off the coast and head toward Texas.

Meanwhile, Bertha is expected to bring short, intense downpours over the coastal and inland areas of the Florida Panhandle, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. The intense rain over a short period of time could trigger low-level flash flooding.

TRACK BERTHA: LIVE RADAR, FLOOD THREAT, WIND SPEED AND RADAR

Rain totals of 2 to 4 inches are expected through the middle of the week, with isolated higher amounts possible.

This story is developing. Check back for updates.

Here's why barrier islands are important during hurricane season

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 16:16:52 -0400

As hurricanes threaten the U.S. coastline each year, barrier islands play an important role in helping protect coastal communities and environments.

Sitting just offshore, these natural landforms act as a buffer between the open ocean and the mainland, taking the brunt of severe storms.

PROPERTY SUSTAIN HURRICANE DAMAGE? HERE'S WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

What is a barrier Island?

Barrier islands are long, narrow stretches of sand that run parallel to the coastline.

Iconic barrier islands protect both bustling coastal communities — like North Carolina’s Outer Banks, Florida’s Sanibel Island and Texas’s Galveston Island — and vital wilderness areas, such as Louisiana’s Chandeleur Islands.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR HURRICANE SEASON

Separated from the mainland by bays, lagoons or marshes, they constantly shift and reshape due to waves, tides and storms.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), barrier islands are dynamic landforms that naturally migrate over time as sand is moved by wind and water.

How do barrier islands protect the coast?

When a storm strikes, barrier islands absorb the initial impact before powerful hazards reach populated mainland areas. They help by:

Absorbing wave energy: Breaking down massive ocean waves before they hit the mainland.

Slowing storm surge: Acting as a physical wall to reduce inland flooding.

HERE'S WHAT TO DO IF YOU ENCOUNTER A FLOODED ROAD

Protecting sensitive wetlands: Shielding estuaries, salt marshes, and inland communities from direct ocean exposure.

Reducing inland erosion: Healthy sand dunes and native vegetation bind the sand, stabilizing the shoreline against erosion.

Sheltering marine ecosystems: The calm waters behind the islands create protected lagoons and salt marshes that serve as vital habitats for sea turtle nesting, migratory birds and fish nurseries.

Experts say healthy dunes and natural vegetation on barrier islands also help stabilize and reduce erosion during storms.

WHAT IS COASTAL EROSION AND WHY IS IT DANGEROUS?

While barrier islands are naturally dynamic, they face increasing pressure today.

Sea-level rise, stronger hurricane seasons and coastal development can disrupt an island's ability to naturally rebuild itself.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Protecting native vegetation, restoring sand dunes and limiting artificial disruption are key to ensuring these natural shields continue guarding our coastlines for generations to come.

How much rain will Chicago receive by the end of July?

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 15:11:22 -0400

CHICAGO, Ill. – After a wet start to the month, Chicago, Illinois, has had a bit of a dry spell, leaving people wondering how much rain could fall by the end of July.

So far this month, Chicago has received just over 3.5 inches of rain, according to the National Weather Service.

LAKE TRAVIS PASSES CAPACITY AFTER DEVASTATING TEXAS FLOODS, THREATENING HOMES AS BERTHA MOVES ALONG GULF

Despite this, the city is above the annual average precipitation, with 24.1 inches so far, compared to the usual average of 21.1 inches.

Scattered showers are expected this evening as precipitation chances increase overnight.

With more wet weather on the way, prediction markets at Kalshi are analyzing the expected rainfall totals for Chicago by the end of the month.

OVER 116M AMERICANS ACROSS EASTERN US TARGETED BY POSSIBLE TORNADOES, FLASH FLOODING AS SEVERE STORMS TAKE AIM

Experts at Kalshi are predicting a 99% chance that precipitation totals will exceed 3 inches, along with a 51% chance of surpassing 4 inches by the end of July.

This comes as a multiday threat kicked off Monday, impacting portions of the Upper Midwest throughout the afternoon and evening with multiple tornado-warned storms, large hail and damaging winds.

TROPICAL STORM BERTHA STRENGTHENS, THREATENS GULF COAST WITH HEAVY RAIN, COASTAL FLOODING AND SQUALLS

As the severe weather trend continues across portions of the Midwest and Northeast today, there is a chance that rain totals could surpass 3 inches this month, according to experts.

Track Tropical Storm Bertha: Live radar, forecast cone, flood threat, wind speed and warnings

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 22:13:47 -0400

Tropical Storm Bertha has formed in the eastern Gulf, becoming the second named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season.

Bertha strengthened from Tropical Depression Two and is expected to bring days of heavy rain to parts of the Southeast through Thursday.

According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Bertha has maximum sustained winds of 60 mph.

BRIGHT IDEA: BOLD PLAN SUGGESTS WEAKENING ONE OF EARTH'S MOST POWERFUL CLIMATE FORCES

Here is everything you need to know about Tropical Storm Bertha, including where it is, when to expect impacts, tropical alerts and more.

Where is Tropical Storm Bertha?

TROPICAL STORM BERTHA FORMS, BRINGING DAYS OF RAIN AND STORM SURGE ALONG PARTS OF THE GULF COAST

What is the forecast track of Bertha?

MULTIDAY STORM THREAT TARGETS OVER A DOZEN STATES WITH TORNADO THREAT, FLOOD RISK FROM MIDWEST TO NORTHEAST

When to be ready for Bertha

Tropical alerts for Bertha

MAJOR OIL REFINERY SUSPENDS SOME OPERATIONS ALONG GULF IN ANTICIPATION OF TROPICAL DEPRESSION TWO

Tracking wind speed and gusts

TROPICAL STORM FAUSTO COULD BECOME THE SEASON'S FIRST HURRICANE AS ELIDA BRINGS RIP CURRENTS TO CALIFORNIA

Tracking Bertha's storm surge forecast

WHAT IS A TROPICAL STORM?

Gulf Coast communities prepare as Tropical Storm Bertha's outer bands begin to lash coastline

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 11:15:19 -0400

MOBILE, Ala. — Gulf Coast states are preparing for Tropical Storm Bertha, which is set to deliver life-threatening storm surge, tropical downpours and gusty winds to parts of Florida, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana, with impacts increasing through the day on Wednesday.

TROPICAL STORM BERTHA STRENGTHENS, THREATENS GULF COAST WITH HEAVY RAIN, STORM SURGE AND SQUALLS

The Louisiana Health Department urged people on Monday to review their emergency plans and stock up on supplies.

TIMELINE: WHEN YOU WILL SEE THE FIRST IMPACTS OF TROPICAL STORM BERTHA IN THE SOUTHEAST

The City of New Orleans advised residents to complete their storm preparations by Tuesday and clear catch basins around their properties.

Louisiana State University (LSU) began monitoring Bertha when it was still a tropical depression.

Entergy, Louisiana's largest electric utility, said it will provide live updates of any power outages and asked people to have their emergency kits ready.

TRACK BERTHA: LIVE RADAR, FLOOD THREAT, WIND SPEED AND RADAR

Meanwhile, energy company Chevron told FOX Weather it had moved all personnel from its Petronius platform onshore.

The company said it also moved people from its Tubular Bells and Blind Faith platforms.

"Chevron will continue to closely monitor the storm. We remain focused on the safety of our workforce, the integrity of our facilities and the protection of the environment," Chevron said in a statement.

Alabama's Emergency Management Agency shared information on assembling a disaster supply kit and Mobile County asked people to stay out of the water due to the High Rip Current Risk caused by Bertha.

The City of Orange Beach, Alabama, urged residents and property owners to secure boats and loose outdoor furniture in preparation for any potential storm surge flooding.

Check back for updates on this developing story.

Bryan Norcross: Disheveled Tropical Storm Bertha tracking across the northern Gulf

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 10:59:32 -0400

Updated at 10:15 a.m. on Tuesday, July 21, 2026.

Tropical Storm Bertha is producing some winds gusting near hurricane force, but they are confined to a robust thunderstorm cell near the center of rotation well offshore of the Florida Panhandle.

Dry air has penetrated the circulation since the get-go and continues to be an inhibiting factor. In addition, the upper-level winds over the Gulf are hostile to dramatic development.

TRACK TROPICAL STORM BERTHA: LIVE RADAR, FORECAST CONE, FLOOD THREAT, WIND SPEED AND WARNINGS

Bertha might intensify a bit more, but the strong upper winds are forecast to increase as it tracks in the direction of southeastern Louisiana, so the intensity is likely to peak soon, and the strongest winds will stay offshore. The National Hurricane Center's forecast shows slow weakening beginning tomorrow.

Some outer bands containing gusty tropical downpours are arcing over the coast and adjacent inland areas. There is some potential for flash flooding in isolated spots. But most of the heavy rain will remain offshore.

TROPICAL STORM BERTHA STRENGTHENS, THREATENS GULF COAST WITH HEAVY RAIN, STORM SURGE AND SQUALLS

Bertha's main effect will be at the coast. The persistent and strong winds on the backside of the circulation will push Gulf water above the normal tide levels. A water rise of 2 to 4 feet above normal high tide is possible, especially in the low-lying areas of southern Alabama, Mississippi, and southeastern Louisiana.

In addition, the surf will be dangerous with large waves and rip currents likely. Pay attention to alerts.

TIMELINE: WHEN YOU WILL SEE FIRST IMPACTS OF TROPICAL STORM BERTHA IN THE SOUTHEAST

There's high confidence that Bertha's center will track west offshore of the western Florida Panhandle and Alabama. As the system nears Mississippi and Alabama late on Wednesday, the forecast is less certain.

The most reliable computer forecasts – both the consensus of traditional models and the Google DeepMind model – indicate that the increasing upper winds could rip the system apart, disconnecting the upper circulation from the one we track at ground level. In that case, the system would die out over or near southern Louisiana. But that's not 100%.

SEVERE STORMS TO TRIGGER MULTIDAY FLOOD THREAT ACROSS MID-ATLANTIC, CAROLINAS AS BERTHA NEARS GULF COAST

Whether it's a weaker system or just a remnant, tropical moisture with some gusty winds could continue west toward Texas. There is no indication of a strong storm impacting the Texas coast, however.

Poorly developed systems over the very warm Gulf water can surprise us, so everyone along the Gulf Coast from the Florida Panhandle to Texas should stay aware.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Track errors for weak systems are, on average, three times as large as they are for strong hurricanes. When a system is moving slowly like this, it compounds the uncertainty. So stay informed, just in case.

Lake Travis passes capacity after devastating Texas floods, threatening homes as Bertha moves along Gulf

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 10:44:34 -0400

Austin, TEXAS — Following days of torrential rain and life-threatening flooding across the Hill Country, Lake Travis tops 100% full capacity, prompting the first Mansfield Dam floodgate release in seven years.

The surging water levels are directly impacting low-lying shoreline communities.

Local news outlets report floodwaters at Graveyard Point have already completely swallowed back patios and are pushing toward living spaces.

WATCH: FLOODED GUADALUPE RIVER RUSHES THROUGH KERRVILLE DURING FLASH FLOOD EMERGENCY

Last week, Central and Southwest Texas were battered by historic downpours, with up to two feet of rain falling over the Hill Country within a three-day period.

Multiple water rescues were carried out, and officials tragically reported two fatalities.

The days of relentless rain also caused the catastrophic collapse of the Farm-to-Market (FM) 481 bridge in Uvalde County.

BRIDGE COLLAPSES DUE TO INTENSE FLOODING IN UVALDE COUNTY AS NONSTOP RAIN SLAMS TEXAS HILL COUNTRY

The current state of Lake Travis remains a primary focus for water officials. According to the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), Lake Travis is considered full for water supply purposes at 681 feet above mean sea level (MSL).

WHAT FLOOD WATCHES, WARNINGS AND EMERGENCIES MEAN

As of Tuesday morning, the water level sat at 683.65 feet MSL—roughly 2.6 feet above its full pool capacity, or approximately 105% full.

"The flood pool of Lake Travis is the area between 681 feet above mean sea level (feet msl) to the crest of the emergency spillway at 714 feet msl. The Lake Travis flood pool can store 776,062 acre-feet," LCRA states.

This indicates the lake remains roughly 30 feet below the emergency spillway crest. However, the rapidly rising water prompted the LCRA to open floodgates at Mansfield Dam on Saturday, July 18—marking the dam's first floodgate operation since 2019.

TROPICAL STORM BERTHA STRENGTHENS, THREATENS GULF COAST WITH HEAVY RAIN, STORM SURGE AND SQUALLS

Compounding the situation, Tropical Storm Bertha continues to track through the Gulf.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Although the FOX Forecast Center said the storm is not expected to drop heavy, flood-producing rainfall on the areas still recovering from last week’s disaster, as of Tuesday morning, it is still forecast to bring gusty winds and scattered pockets of rain to parts of Texas later this week.

Stick with FOX Weather as we continue to track Bertha and its regional impacts.

Severe storms to trigger multiday flood threat across Mid-Atlantic, Carolinas as Bertha nears Gulf Coast

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 21:11:47 -0400

A cold front is expected to bring severe thunderstorms capable of producing damaging wind gusts to parts of the Mid-Atlantic and the Carolinas on Wednesday. Afterward, the front is expected to stall and draw moisture from the Gulf, potentially enhanced by Tropical Storm Bertha, bringing repeated rounds of rain and a multiday flash flood threat.

LATEST ON TROPICAL STORM BERTHA

NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has issued a Level 2 out of 5 risk of severe thunderstorms beginning Wednesday afternoon for northern North Carolina, Eastern Virginia and parts of the Delmarva, with the primary threat being damaging winds gusts.

This threat covers Raleigh, North Carolina, Virginia Beach, Virginia, and Salisbury, Maryland.

A broader Level 1 threat includes New Jersey, Washington, D.C., central Virginia, Western and southern North Carolina, as well as parts of northwestern South Carolina.

However, the FOX Forecast Center said the main concern will be flash flooding, especially as the cold front slows down near the Carolinas and taps into increasing moisture from Tropical Storm Bertha in the Gulf. Exactly how much moisture Tropical Storm Bertha will provide will depend on where the storm tracks.

Repeated rounds of heavy rain are expected from Wednesday through at least Friday.

Eastern North Carolina is expected to see the highest rain totals, while the mountains of Western North Carolina are not expected to see significant impacts.

KNOW YOUR FLOOD TERMINOLOGY: WHAT FLOOD WATCHES, WARNINGS AND EMERGENCIES REALLY MEAN

Raleigh, areas eastward toward the Outer Banks, and locations along the coast are in the bull's-eye of the greatest flood risk. The threat will extend south toward Wilmington, North Carolina, and north toward Virginia Beach.

Some areas in Eastern North Carolina could receive more than 8 inches of rain between Wednesday and Saturday. A widespread 2-3 inches of rain is expected across the region.

Currently, the flood threat is at a Level 2 out of 4, but the FOX Forecast Center said it could be upgraded to a Level 3 out of 4 depending on how Bertha develops and how much moisture it brings into the region.

TRACK TROPICAL STORM BERTHA: LIVE RADAR, FORECAST CONE AND WARNINGS

By the end of the week, the front is expected to drift farther south, shifting the heaviest rainfall closer to the coast. This could improve conditions inland while moving the flood threat from the Outer Banks toward coastal South Carolina.

Stay with FOX Weather for the latest updates.

Over 116M Americans across Eastern US targeted by possible tornadoes, flash flooding as severe storms take aim

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 13:49:26 -0400

As a multiday severe weather event shifts eastward on Tuesday, an exceptionally active day is shaping up across much of the eastern U.S.

Over 116 million people are in the threat zone as severe storms bring the risk of tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail, along with heavy rain that brings an increasing risk of widespread flash flooding.

The multiday threat kicked off Monday, impacting portions of the Upper Midwest throughout the afternoon and evening with multiple tornado-warned storms, large hail, and damaging winds.

Some of the highest wind gusts were reported in Iowa, where Sheffield recorded 80 mph. Meanwhile, Watson, Michigan, saw 3-inch hail.

7 FACTS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT FLASH FLOODS

As severe weather shifts eastward on Tuesday, conditions mirror Saturday’s high-impact event of severe storms and flash flooding across parts of the region.

A very active pattern now brings the potential for both severe storms and flash flooding across a massive stretch from the Midwest to the Northeast.

The severe weather threat has been upgraded to a Level 3 out of 5 for 35 million people, with another 50 million under a Level 2 threat on Tuesday.

The first round of storms is expected to develop during the morning hours, stretching from eastern Virginia up into the Tri-State area and southern New England.

While this will be the weaker of the two rounds, these storms will still be capable of producing gusty winds and torrential downpours.

Flash flooding is also possible—especially in urban areas—and could impact the morning commute.

BRIDGE COLLAPSES DUE TO INTENSE FLOODING IN UVALDE COUNTY AS NONSTOP RAIN SLAMS TEXAS HILL COUNTRY

"Significant flash flooding is also on the table, and we could be looking at more scenes of underwater roads and flooded subways," the FOX Forecast Center said.

But more than anything, this initial wave will set the stage for the main event later in the day.

Severe Thunderstorm Threats

The primary line of thunderstorms will take shape by mid-morning along a pre-frontal trough ahead of the main cold front, extending from the upper Ohio Valley up into western New York.

BRIDGE COLLAPSES DUE TO INTENSE FLOODING IN UVALDE COUNTY AS NONSTOP RAIN SLAMS TEXAS HILL COUNTRY

These storms will gradually intensify as they track east through the afternoon, approaching the I-95 corridor during or just after the evening rush hour.

Swaths of damaging winds capable of knocking down trees will be the primary threat, though a few tornadoes are also possible.

According to the FOX Forecast Center, "The highest confidence for tornado development spans western New York down into eastern Pennsylvania."

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Hail is also likely in this region, extending back toward the middle Ohio Valley. However, the greatest risk for widespread, high-impact damaging winds will focus across the Mid-Atlantic states.

Flash Flooding Risk

Additionally, the growing potential for flash flooding is a major concern.

Tuesday's setup is remarkably similar to last Saturday, which triggered significant flooding across New York City, New Jersey, and western Pennsylvania.

Atmospheric moisture will support peak rainfall rates as high as 2.5 inches per hour—nearly half the monthly average for July.

Heavy rain of this intensity is concerning on its own, but it will be falling on ground already saturated from Saturday's downpours, the FOX Forecast Center highlights.

The main round of storms will reach the I-95 Megalopolis between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. before pushing offshore by midnight.

TROPICAL DEPRESSION TWO FORMS IN THE GULF, WITH HEAVY DOWNPOURS EXPECTED IN THE SOUTHEAST

Additionally, the same storms will also be capable of producing torrential rain, especially along the I-95 corridor from the Delmarva Peninsula into southern New England.

Stay weather-aware and stick with FOX Weather for the latest updates on the multiday severe weather event.

Fausto becomes the season's first hurricane as Elida brings rip currents to California

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 10:23:39 -0400

Hurricane Fausto is strengthening in the Eastern Pacific and has become the first hurricane in the Northern Hemisphere this season, while Elida became post-tropical, but not before bringing life-threatening rip currents to Southern California.

The active start to the Eastern Pacific hurricane season is in keeping with the strengthening El Niño climate pattern, which historically enhances tropical activity in the basin.

ODDS INCREASE AGAIN FOR SUPER EL NIÑO BY THIS FALL

Meanwhile, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) is monitoring an area several hundred miles south of Mexico for potential tropical development. The NHC is giving this area a medium chance of development over the next seven days.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A TROPICAL DEPRESSION, TROPICAL STORM AND HURRICANE?

Fausto becomes the season's first hurricane Monday

Hurricane Fausto strengthened into the basin's first hurricane on Monday night, according to the NHC.

Fausto is roughly 785 miles south-southwest of the southern tip of Baja California, with wind speeds of 75 mph.

Once a tropical storm’s winds reach 74 mph, it is called a hurricane and maintains the same name it had when it was a tropical storm.

Fausto — which is a category 1 hurricane — is expected to move into a more favorable environment for tropical development, where it could continue to strengthen through midweek before it encounters more hostile conditions and gradually weakens.

It is expected to track northwest over the next several days in the general direction of Hawaii, which it could approach in eight to 10 days.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Elida becomes post-tropical but brings life-threatening rip currents to California

Meanwhile, Elida became post-tropical Monday morning as it moved north over cooler waters, roughly parallel to Baja California.

However, the NHC warned that the system will still generate life-threatening rip currents for parts of Southern California during the next several days.

WHAT IS A RIP CURRENT AND HOW TO SURVIVE ONE

The FOX Forecast Center said the storm's remnants could also bring rain to parts of Southern California as well.

"So far, the basin has produced six named storms: Amanda, Boris, Cristina, Douglas, Elida and now Fausto," the Forecast Center said.

"All storms formed ahead of their average climatological formation dates."

Timeline: When you will see first impacts of Tropical Storm Bertha in the Southeast

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 22:47:21 -0400

Tropical Storm Bertha has formed in the eastern Gulf of America and is forecast to bring rounds of heavy rain, gusty winds and minor flooding to parts of the Gulf Coast.

FOX Weather is here to let you know when to expect the worst conditions in your area.

HURRICANE SEASON 2026: THESE ARE THE STORM NAMES YOU'LL SEE THIS SEASON

Currently, Tropical Storm Watches are in effect from the Florida panhandle to southeastern Louisiana as winds, heavy rain and storm surge are expected to intensify while the storm moves across the region.

The growing threat prompted the National Hurricane Center (NHC) to issue a Storm Surge Watch for parts of the Alabama, Mississippi and southeastern Louisiana coasts.

Some areas could receive up to 4 inches of rain in a short period of time, while storm surge could reach as high as 4 feet above normally dry ground in some locations.

TROPICAL STORM BERTHA FORMS, BRINGING DAYS OF RAIN AND STORM SURGE ALONG PARTS OF THE GULF COAST

Here's a timeline of when Tropical Storm Bertha is expected to arrive in your area and the impacts forecasters expect it to bring.

Tuesday

The day will begin with Bertha located about 100 miles south of Pensacola, Florida.

Despite the storm's proximity to the coast, much of the northern Gulf Coast will see a mix of sun and clouds with scattered showers and thunderstorms moving in from the east.

WHAT IS A TROPICAL STORM?

Those storms could extend as far east as Tampa along the west coast of Florida.

Gusty winds between 25 and 35 mph will develop north and east of Bertha's center, creating breezy conditions from the Emerald Coast towards Apalachicola, Florida.

By the afternoon, Bertha will begin turning west, with those gusty winds expanding toward Alabama's coastline.

WHAT IS STORM SURGE?

Scattered showers and thunderstorms capable of producing heavy downpours will continue across northern Florida while spreading into southern Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia.

Meanwhile, the west side of the storm will remain relatively dry. This includes cities like New Orleans.

Tuesday night

Tropical storm conditions will become possible along the Alabama coast extending east through the Florida panhandle as Bertha is expected to peak in strength.

Wind gusts up to 50 mph will be possible, along with increasing rain chances for cities such as Pensacola, Destin, Panama City Beach and possibly Gulf Shores, Alabama.

HERE ARE THE BUZZWORDS YOU'LL BE HEARING DURING HURRICANE SEASON

Any freshwater flooding is expected to be minor and localized. The greater flood threat will come from storm surge, which could reach up to 4 feet.

Most locations are expected to see 1 to 2 feet of surge. That will be enough to cause areas of minor coastal flooding.

Wednesday

Bertha's center will likely be approaching the Louisiana or Mississippi coast.

Winds will increase throughout the day in cities including Gulfport, MS and Biloxi, MS, and eventually New Orleans.

HURRICANE SEASON 2026: THESE ARE THE STORM NAMES YOU'LL SEE THIS SEASON

Landfall is expected sometime Wednesday afternoon or night.

Widespread heavy rain is expected to be hard to come by as strong winds aloft continue to displace the rain over the Gulf.

Thursday and beyond

If Bertha survives its interaction with land, the weakened system will continue tracking west toward Texas, where it could produce pockets of rain.

HOW ARE HURRICANES RATED? THE SAFFIR-SIMPSON HURRICANE WIND SCALE EXPLAINED

Luckily, it is not expected to cause heavy rainfall in the parts of Texas that are still recovering from last week's deadly flooding.

Cannibalistic jellyfish are invading the precious lagoons of Venice with no way of removing them

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 20:46:58 -0400

VENICE, Italy – An aquatic invasion is underway in Venice, Italy, where numerous cannibalistic jellyfish, known as comb jellies, are plaguing the city's lagoons.

Due to disruptions to the seawater environment and warming temperatures, these invasive species have thrived, threatening fisheries, ecosystems and disrupting swimmers.

Comb jellies have jelly-like bodies with bright-colored bands, which are made up of tiny hairs called combs, according to the Chesapeake Bay Program.

Unlike jellyfish, these animals do not have stinging tentacles, which can help swimmers feel much calmer as they enter the beautiful lagoons in Venice.

Surprisingly, the natural predator of this creature is itself, as comb jellies are cannibalistic, with the pink comb jelly as the usual culprit.

THOUSANDS OF GIANT LION'S MANE JELLYFISH SIGHTINGS TRIGGER PUBLIC SAFETY ALERTS FOR NEW ENGLAND BEACHGOERS

As summer temperatures rise in such lagoons across Italy, this gives the jellies a boost, allowing them to develop more quickly and increase populations further, creating a nuisance for swimmers.

These creatures can cause significant disruption to local fish populations by eating anchovies, sardines and sprats, leaving little behind and harming local fisheries.

The comb jelly can thrive in a wide range of water temperatures and reproduce quickly, creating an ongoing problem for fisheries and swimmers looking to enjoy time in the water this summer.

LARGEST KNOWN BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN STRANDING OFF NEW ENGLAND COAST PROMPTS MASSIVE RESCUE EFFORT

Warming temperatures and a lack of persistent natural predators have allowed this animal to thrive with no exact plan to stop its destructive ways.

"Eradication of this invader is almost impossible, given its widespread establishment," the U.S. Department of State said. "Focus has now moved to controlling the growth and success of the comb jelly in attempts to reverse the fisheries decline in the Black and Azov Seas."

SEE IT: RARE FOOTAGE CAPTURES ELUSIVE BLUE-RINGED OCTOPUS CARRYING HER EGGS OFF AUSTRALIAN COAST

Over time, control methods can help contain invasive species and, hopefully, discover ways to protect better underwater ecosystems that comb jellies affect so drastically.

See it: Archeologists uncover residential city from Byzantine Empire in Egypt

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 19:03:44 -0400

EGYPT – Archeologists have been busy over the last few months as they dig up more relics from the Eastern Roman Empire in Egypt, shedding light on the country’s rich and diverse history.

The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, part of the Egyptian Government, has uncovered a residential city dating back to the Byzantine Empire, when the Eastern Roman Empire thrived for over a thousand years.

ANCIENT 'LOST WORLD' COULD REWRITE HISTORY FOR HOW FIRST AMERICANS ARRIVED 13,000 YEARS AGO

Experts analyzed the residential city, noting that it followed an organized urban plan of intertwining main streets, open fields, squares and a Basilica Church overlooking one of the main streets.

Many other features of the city make it seem more like a residential community, with two watchtowers, a thick-walled fortress and a collection of houses with spacious halls, ovens, kitchens and various tools, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.

Along with these discoveries, officials uncovered a number of bronze and gold coins depicting Roman emperors and Latin and Christian symbols.

BRIGHT IDEA: BOLD PLAN SUGGESTS WEAKENING ONE OF EARTH'S MOST POWERFUL CLIMATE FORCES

Among the most prominent discoveries was a residence that housed the city’s deacon, dating back to the 4th century, when the Western Roman Empire fell, leaving the eastern half as the last standing piece of the once-great Imperium.

The Eastern Roman Empire is very different from the rest of its unified history, as Constantine was the first Christian Emperor.

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History of the Byzantine Empire in Egypt

Rome’s influence in Egypt began hundreds of years before the establishment of the Byzantine Empire. Still, this era marked a new time when Emperor Constantine established a "New Rome," which spawned a rich tradition of art, literature and learning.

This is the city of Constantinople, modern-day Istanbul, Turkey.

In 330 A.D., Constantine established the new city, governed by Roman law, observed by Christianity, and adopted Greek as its primary language, serving as a melting pot of various cultures due to its unique geographical location.

SEE IT: VILLA CONTAINING RUINS FROM ROMAN EMPIRE UNCOVERED IN EGYPT

Emperor Constantine would seek to quickly populate the city by offering residents full citizenship and free food rations, supported by a system of aqueducts to ensure access to water within the city walls.

He brought art and other ornaments from Rome to display and more strongly influence the culture of the new land.

Eventually, Constantine built an enormous city that served as the heart of Eastern Christianity and thrived for over a thousand years, until May 29, 1453, when it fell to the Ottoman Empire.

CEMETERY FROM THE ROMAN EMPIRE UNCOVERED IN EGYPT REVEALS NEW DETAILS ABOUT MONUMENTAL ERA IN HISTORY

Further discoveries from these eras, hundreds of years ago, continue to shed light on Egypt's diverse history and culture.

Rescue ends with 5 killed at popular Midwest river after child calls for help

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 16:40:28 -0400

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Five people have been found dead after going missing on the Scioto River in Delaware County, Ohio, on Sunday night.

The Delaware County Sheriff's Office said a driver noticed a young child running along State Route 257, clearly distraught, around 9 p.m. on Sunday. They called police to relay that the child said his family was in the river.

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Multiple first responders arrived, and two adult women were subsequently pulled from the water. They were taken to nearby hospitals and later pronounced dead, according to authorities.

The search for three adult men who are also believed to have been in the water continued on Monday. The sheriff's office told FOX Weather that officials found the bodies in the river around 2 p.m.

The Scioto River appears to have risen over the past few days, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Parts of Ohio experienced scattered showers and thunderstorms on Sunday.

MULTIDAY STORM THREAT TARGETS OVER A DOZEN STATES WITH SEVERE WEATHER, FLOOD RISK FROM MIDWEST TO NORTHEAST

The Midwest is also currently facing a multiday risk of severe storms and flooding, according to the FOX Forecast Center.

Multiple fire and police agencies responded to the scene to assist with search efforts.

The sheriff's office said they are withholding identities pending family notification. They said they're investigating the incident and will provide updates as they become available.

HEARTBREAKING TRAGEDY: FIRE CAPTAIN, HIS WIFE AND 3 CHILDREN HAVE DIED AMID FLASH FLOODING IN SOUTHERN UTAH

The Scioto River is 231 miles long and is a popular attraction for people in the area. It's a major central Ohio waterway that's famous for fishing (particularly saugeye, catfish and smallmouth bass), kayaking and boating, according to publiclands.com.

The incident comes just days after a fire captain, his wife and three kids were killed during flash flooding in Utah.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

Major oil refinery suspends some operations along Gulf in anticipation of Tropical Depression Two

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 14:44:55 -0400

As Tropical Depression Two continues to swirl over the Eastern Gulf of America, it shows no signs of slowing and could bring flash flooding and life-threatening storm conditions.

Due to the impending dangerous conditions, the petroleum refineries company Chevron, which is headquartered in Houston, Texas, will shut down some operations and move personnel onshore.

This comes as officials begin storm-preparedness procedures as Tropical Depression Two is expected to develop into Bertha on Monday.

7 FACTS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT FLASH FLOODS

"In preparation for Tropical Depression Two, we are shutting-in production at our Petronius facility, and all associated personnel are being moved onshore," Chevron said in a statement to FOX Weather.

Most petroleum refineries are located along major coastlines, putting personnel directly under threat.

If the storm system becomes better organized and strengthens, a large area of high pressure along the southern U.S. could keep it over warm Gulf waters, increasing the chances of the storm impacting the Texas coast this week.

TROPICAL STORM WATCHES EXPANDED AS TROPICAL DEPRESSION TWO EXPECTED TO BECOME BERTHA LATER MONDAY

Tropical Depression Two is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain of 2 to 4 inches throughout the week across Florida, the Texas panhandle and the Big Bend region.

This will also bring a Level 1 out of 4 flash flood threat to start the week, before it is upgraded to a Level 2 out of 4 for areas along the immediate Gulf coast.

MULTIDAY STORM THREAT TARGETS OVER A DOZEN STATES WITH SEVERE WEATHER, FLOOD RISK FROM MIDWEST TO NORTHEAST

As storm conditions continue to develop, it is possible that Chevron and other coastal businesses could take further safety precautions.

See it: Rare footage captures elusive blue-ringed octopus carrying her eggs off Australian coast

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 14:17:00 -0400

RYE PIER, VICTORIA, Australia – An experienced local diver and underwater photographer has captured an extremely rare sight: a mother blue-ringed octopus carrying her eggs in Port Phillip Bay, Australia.

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Jules Casey, who shared the incredible footage on her Instagram account, recounted the unique encounter.

Casey said she was initially pointing out a conger eel to her dive buddy when he spotted the octopus.

After briefly losing sight of the creature while moving toward it, she returned about an hour later and found the octopus in the same spot.

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The striking video shows the octopus's brilliant blue rings contrasting sharply against what appears to be an orange sponge.

The white/cream and almost translucent jellybean-like structures wrapped around her tentacles are her eggs.

According to a post by Casey, encountering a blue-ringed octopus out in the open is highly unusual because they generally remain concealed in their dens. She notes that a predator might have disturbed this particular female.

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"But what was really interesting, she stayed out in this position for hours," Casey wrote in her post, regarding the creature's unusual behavior.

NASA finds clues to early solar system and life’s origins in pristine 2024 meteorite discovered in New Jersey

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 12:02:28 -0400

A meteorite that crashed to Earth in 2024 is giving NASA a rare glimpse into the days of our solar system.

By studying its composition, researchers are unlocking secrets about ancient water, the chemical changes that shaped early asteroids and the materials that may have helped create the conditions for life.

THE PERSEID METEOR SHOWER IS HERE AND SKYWATCHERS COULD SEE UP TO 100 SHOOTING STARS PER HOUR

Classified as a CM carbonaceous chondrite, this meteorite belongs to a group of space rocks known for being rich in carbon.

According to NASA, "These primitive rocks preserve some of the oldest materials in the solar system, recording the chemical processes that shaped asteroids more than 4.5 billion years ago."

Scientists learned that the rock does carry fundamental components for life.

The breakthrough began on July 16, 2024, when the meteorite landed on the property of a New Jersey amateur astronomer. Because of its sudden landing spot, the space rock officially became known as the Hillsborough meteorite.

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Given the homeowner's background in astronomy, he instantly knew the rock's significance and took immediate action to preserve it in foil and glass before it could face environmental contamination.

Additionally, because many people caught video of the meteorite streaking across the sky, researchers were able to track its trajectory and determine its likely point of origin.

"When we have both a documented fireball and a quick recovery of its meteorite, we can learn not only what the rock is made of, but where it came from in the asteroid belt," said Peter Jenniskens, a meteor astronomer at the SETI Institute and NASA's Ames Research Center, in a NASA press statement.

Evidence found reveals that liquid, salty water once flowed through the parent asteroid.

By examining tiny cracks inside the rock, scientists found evidence of sodium deposits left behind by ancient, salt-rich brines that flowed through the asteroid billions of years ago.

NEW STUDY SUGGESTS EARTH COULD ESCAPE THE SUN'S FIERY DEMISE HOWEVER HUMANITY'S FATE REMAINS SEALED

"Hillsborough marks the first time the salts have been identified in a CM carbonaceous chondrite meteorite, offering a new glimpse into the surfaces of the primitive asteroids that produced these meteorites," NASA stated.

Researchers also found that the meteorite contains complex organic compounds, including amino acids, which are the raw chemical building blocks of biology.

HOW OFTEN DO METEORITES CRASH IN THE US?

"It's just more proof that the chemical building blocks of life could have been delivered — and are still being delivered — to Earth today by these carbonaceous asteroid fragments," said Danny Glavin, an astrobiologist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center. Glavin, a co-investigator on NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission, previously led the international team that analyzed organic samples brought back from the asteroid Bennu.

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Ultimately, this newly discovered information plays a vital role in the continued understanding of how life could have started early in our solar system.

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"If you follow the water through the solar system, you're actually following life," Mike Zolensky, a meteorite researcher at NASA Johnson and co-author of the study, said. "Following the history of water through the solar system is an essential part of understanding the origin of life."

Tropical Storm Watches expanded as Tropical Depression Two expected to become Bertha later Monday

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 17:29:57 -0400

Tropical Depression Two is expected to strengthen into Tropical Storm Bertha later Monday in the eastern Gulf, which would become the second named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season.

HURRICANE SEASON 2026: THESE ARE THE STORM NAMES YOU'LL SEE THIS SEASON

Tropical Depression Two formed in the eastern Gulf on Sunday and is expected to bring days of heavy rainfall to parts of the Southeast.

Tropical Depression Two was located about 100 miles south of the eastern Florida Panhandle Monday morning, with maximum sustained winds increasing to 35 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC).

WHAT IS A TROPICAL STORM?

A tropical storm is a tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph, making it stronger than a tropical depression.

Tropical Storm Watches expanded Monday morning along the coast from the Ochlockonee River in the Florida Panhandle to the Jefferson-Plaquemines Parish border in Louisiana, indicating that these areas could experience tropical storm conditions into Tuesday.

Additionally, the NHC warned that the storm surge along the immediate coast in this area could reach 1 to 3 feet.

WHAT IS STORM SURGE?

A Storm Surge Watch was issued late Monday morning from the Alabama-Florida border to the Mouth of the Mississippi River, meaning that there is the possibility of life-threatening flooding from rising water moving inland from the coast. A storm surge of 2-4 feet is possible for this area.

According to the NHC, Tropical Depression Two is currently forecast to move slowly northwest along the northern Gulf Coast over the next several days.

However, there is still some uncertainty about Bertha's forecast track after it forms later Monday.

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"If the system stays weaker and moves inland sooner, the heaviest rain would spread farther inland across parts of the Southeast," the FOX Forecast Center said.

"If it strengthens and remains over the Gulf longer, the heaviest rain would stay closer to the coast before gradually shifting west along the Gulf Coast later in the week."

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This second scenario would bring the heaviest rain toward the Middle Texas Coast toward the end of the week.

Meanwhile, forecast models are much more confident that this system will bring periods of heavy rain to the Florida Panhandle and Big Bend as it passes by. Rain totals of 2–4 inches are expected through the middle of the week, with isolated higher amounts possible.

This story is developing. Check back for updates.

Bryan Norcross: Tropical depression is struggling but Bertha is still forecast to develop in the Northern Gulf

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 09:32:40 -0400

Last updated at 9:15 a.m. on Monday, July 20, 2026

Tropical Depression Two has a broad circulation with clusters of heavy thunderstorms, but it's infused with dry air. The overall environment is less conducive to organizing and strengthening today, but the moderately hostile upper winds still might abate enough for the system to spin up into Tropical Storm Bertha. So far, the sustained winds are less than 40 mph.

LATEST FROM BRYAN NORCROSS

Rain bands rotating around the sprawling circulation contain tropical downpours. In the short term, rainfall will be the biggest threat wherever they spread over the coastal sections.

Onshore wind in Apalachee Bay south of Tallahassee could push the water 1 to 3 feet above the normal high tide level. As the storm tracks west, watch for elevated tides all along the northern Gulf Coast.

TROPICAL DEPRESSION TWO EXPECTED TO BECOME TROPICAL STORM BERTHA LATER MONDAY AS RAIN TARGETS THE SOUTHEAST

For the next couple days, the system will drift northwest to west offshore of the coastline. The expectation is for a slow strengthening process under slightly less hostile upper winds, so that by later today or tomorrow, the depression will strengthen enough for the National Hurricane Center to upgrade it to Tropical Storm Bertha.

Remember the rule: Predictions for just-developing, poorly developed, and slow-moving systems are subject to much higher errors, and forecast details are likely to change. Every caveat applies to this system.

Yesterday, there was some concern that Bertha might develop quickly and miss interaction with land as it moved to the west later in the week. That might have resulted in a stronger system reaching Texas. But today, the strong consensus of the computer forecasts is that the depression or a weak Bertha will run into Louisiana and die out there.

The yellow line represents the consensus of the traditional models, and the red one is the Google DeepMind forecast. Notice that both of them lose the circulation over Louisiana.

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In addition, upper-level winds are forecast to be quite hostile at that point. Those winds would likely carry the moisture from what's left of the depression or Bertha toward Texas.

Until or if a well-developed center actually forms, the forecasts will be iffy. But the trends are good for a low-end tropical storm at most.

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Those upper-level winds are also likely to push the heaviest rain south of the coast and over the Gulf. But heavy, tropical rain bands with gusty winds are still possible at the coast and in adjacent inland sections. Be ready for any local alerts from the National Weather Service.

For now, there's nothing to do but stay aware. We have to see how the system develops today. Will the hostile environment of upper-level winds and dry air continue to take its toll, or will a pocket of conducive atmosphere allow the system to become better developed? Forecasts for well-organized systems are almost always more accurate.

The Perseid meteor shower is here and skywatchers could see up to 100 shooting stars per hour

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 05:06:11 -0400

Skywatchers, get ready — one of the year's most popular meteor showers is back and set to light up the August night sky.

The Perseid meteor shower is one of the most anticipated astronomical events of the year.

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The annual shower is known for producing bright, fast-moving meteors and bright fireballs as Earth passes through a trail of debris left behind by Comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle.

The Perseids are active from July 17 through Aug. 24, but the best viewing is expected during the peak from Aug. 12 into Aug. 13.

Under clear, dark skies, observers could see up to 100 meteors per hour, along with fireballs.

This year's display is expected to be one of the best in years because the peak coincides with a new moon, leaving the skies darker and making even the smallest meteors easier to spot.

According to the American Meteor Society, the meteors are called the Perseids because they appear to radiate from the constellation Perseus, even though they can be seen across much of the night sky.

THE BEST CELESTIAL EVENTS IN 2026 YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS

The shower's peak comes just hours after a total solar eclipse visible from parts of Greenland, Iceland and Spain. A partial solar eclipse will also be visible across portions of Europe and parts of North America, including some areas in the U.S. and Canada.

For the best viewing experience, experts recommend heading to a dark location away from city lights and streetlamps. Allow your eyes 20 to 30 minutes to adjust to the darkness, avoid looking at your phone, and look up after midnight through the hours before dawn for the greatest chance of spotting a shooting star.

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Whether you're an experienced stargazer or simply looking to make a wish on a shooting star, the Perseid meteor shower is one of the summer's most spectacular celestial displays.

Missing person found dead in Arizona river amid rising water levels due to flooding

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 20:56:39 -0400

TUCSON, Arizona — A person who went missing after being swept away in a rising river was found dead in Arizona over the weekend.

The Pima County Sheriff's Department said their search and rescue team responded to the Santa Cruz River near the I-10 and I-19 interchange around 1 p.m. Friday.

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Deputies said they received reports of a man being swept down the Julian Wash. Search crews spent several hours canvassing several areas along the Julian Wash and Santa Cruz River, but were unsuccessful.

The search was later suspended after not being able to locate the man. The Tucson Fire Department and police department helped with the search, and the Arizona Department of Public Safety helped search by air.

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Authorities said a separate search began later in the evening after the man's family reported him missing.

His family told officials that the man had been in the wash earlier in the day and were concerned for his safety.

Storm activity later in the day caused water levels in the Julian Wash to rise, according to the sheriff's department.

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The man's family told deputies that he had developmental disabilities and low cognitive ability.

Search efforts resumed on Saturday, and crews were ultimately able to recover the body of 29-year-old Ernesto Ojeda.

The tragedy happens as the Southwest's monsoon season kicks off.

SOUTHWEST MONSOON SEASON OFFICIALLY BEGINS AS DRAMATIC ATMOSPHERIC FLIP UNDERWAY FROM HEAT TO FLASH FLOODING

A monsoon is a seasonal reversal of prevailing winds driven by the temperature contrast between land and ocean, pumping vast amounts of moisture into a region.

The Pima County Office of the Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of death. No additional information was immediately available.

Largest known bottlenose dolphin stranding off New England coast prompts massive rescue effort

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 16:41:23 -0400

CAPE COD, Mass. — Following a massive rescue effort to save a large group of bottlenose dolphins that stranded along Cape Cod, marine mammal experts are now tracking survivors in deeper waters.

Rescuers noted the initial incident involved the "largest known stranding of bottlenose dolphins off Massachusetts."

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According to NOAA Fisheries, a marine mammal stranding refers to an animal that is found dead or is alive, but unable to return to its natural habitat without assistance.

The incident unfolded on Monday, July 13, when the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) was alerted to nearly 30 bottlenose dolphins mass stranded along the Brewster coastline.

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The animals were spread out across the beaches between First Light and Ellis Landing.

While most refloated with the incoming tide, several dolphins died before rescuers arrived.

By Tuesday morning, the situation intensified. Rescue teams initially located four bottlenose dolphins in Wellfleet's Herring River Gut, but the crisis rapidly expanded to 19 live dolphins stranded across three separate locations, spanning a 9-mile stretch from Brewster to Wellfleet.

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The rapid expansion underscores the unique risks of the local coastline.

According to the IFAW, "The area within the ‘crook’ of Wellfleet and Eastham is a globally recognized hotspot for mass stranding events due to the extreme tidal fluctuations and the shallow flats of Cape Cod’s unique geography."

Within that 9-mile stretch, crews fitted two of the dolphins with satellite tags, later tracking the separated groups as they successfully reunited to form a single pod of about 22 dolphins on the water.

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By Wednesday, satellite data showed the tagged dolphins traveling about two miles northwest of Sandy Neck Beach in Barnstable — a promising sign that the animals had moved into safer, deeper water.

Following the incidents, IFAW officials emphasized that stranded marine mammals require highly specialized care and cautioned beachgoers against taking matters into their own hands.

"Similar to a person involved in a car accident, dolphins can become injured and exhausted during a stranding event and should never be pushed or dragged back into the water. Members of the public who encounter a stranded or distressed marine mammal should keep a safe distance and contact trained rescue experts through our IFAW Stranding Hotline," officials said.

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IFAW said they conduct activities under a federal stranding agreement between IFAW and National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

Magnitude 5.5 earthquake rattles Peru, killing at least 5 and leaving hundreds without homes

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 15:29:53 -0400

SICAYA, Peru - A powerful earthquake rattled Peru's Andes region overnight, killing at least five people and leaving hundreds displaced, according to officials.

FOX News Digital reports that homes and a church collapsed due to the magnitude 5.5 earthquake, and an unknown number of people remain missing.

MAGNITUDE 3.3 EARTHQUAKE RATTLES YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK NEAR INFAMOUS SUPERVOLCANO

The earthquake struck around 9:20 p.m., and it happened at a depth of roughly 6.2 miles about a mile away from Sicaya, which is in central Peru, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

Peru's National Civil Defense Institute said more than 20 people have been injured and at least 300 residents have been forced from their homes.

Officials are still trying to account for missing residents after several buildings collapsed or were left unsafe, including a local church and convent, according to FOX News Digital.

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Authorities said the region's widespread use of traditional adobe construction likely made the damage worse. Luis Vásquez, head of the local civil defense office, said the rustic building materials "contributed to the greater impact and damage," FOX News Digital reported.

Shaking from the earthquake was reported all across the country, including in Lima, the country's capital.

Peru is smack-dab in the middle of the Pacific Ring of Fire, which has seen a lot of earthquakes lately.

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The Ring of Fire is the most seismically and volcanically active region on Earth, with frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions caused by the movement of these tectonic plates.

Since 1900, numerous magnitude 8.0 earthquakes have occurred in the region, which were followed by devastating tsunamis, including the 1960 magnitude 9.5 earthquake in southern Chile, the largest recorded quake in the world, according to the USGS.

That megaquake and its subsequent Pacific-wide tsunamis killed thousands of people, left two million homeless and caused widespread devastation as far away as Japan and Hawaii, according to officials.

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Other notable shallow tsumani-generating earthquakes include the 1906 magnitude 8.5 quake near Esmeraldas, Ecuador, the 1922 magnitude 8.5 quake near Coquimbo, Chile and the 2007 magnitude 8.0 earthquake struck the coastal province of Pisco.

Bryan Norcross: Chances increasing that Tropical Depression Two will become Tropical Storm Bertha

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 12:19:44 -0400

Proving the rule that there is so much energy in the Gulf water that almost anything that spins can organize into at least a tropical depression, the expansive low-pressure system centered over the Gulf just west of Tampa Bay has developed into Tropical Depression Two.

There is not much wind, but the rain bands have enough organization to fit the definition of a depression. The pressure near the center of the system is slowly dropping.

WHAT IS A TROPICAL STORM?

The National Hurricane Center is forecasting the system to become Tropical Storm Bertha by tomorrow.

Tropical Storm Watches have been issued for the Florida Panhandle from south of Tallahassee to the Alabama line.

Dry air is still penetrating the circulation both from the north and the south, but the very warm Gulf should provide plenty of moisture, allowing the system to strengthen and Bertha to form.

WHAT IS A TROPICAL DEPRESSION?

Slightly hostile upper-level winds from the northeast or north are forecast to plague the system during its time over the Gulf, which should put an upper limit on its intensity. And those upper winds will also hold most of the heaviest rain offshore, though tropical downpours will certainly affect the coastal zones from the west coast of Florida to Louisiana, including sections within about 50 miles of the coast.

There is a high consensus in the computer forecast models that the center of the broad circulation will move into the northeastern Gulf well south of Tallahassee tomorrow. After that, the future track seems to depend on how organized the system is.

If it has tall thunderstorms, which seems likely, it will be pushed west in the general direction of the Louisiana coast. If it's weaker, it's more likely to continue to drift closer to the coast or inland, but fewer computer forecasts indicate that scenario.

The National Hurricane Center’s forecast cone follows that thinking. The farther offshore it stays, the better opportunity it will have to get a bit stronger. As of now, the NHC's forecast is for a 60-mph tropical storm drifting west offshore of the central northern Gulf Coast.

Here you see the location of the center as forecast by the European model (ECMWF), the U.S. GFS, the Google AI model, and the European AI model (AIFS) on Wednesday.

Notice that the dark green, where the tropical moisture is concentrated, is mostly offshore. This is the work of the upper-level winds blowing out of the north, pushing the moisture south.

Still, the biggest threat is heavy rain from a slow-moving system first over the west coast and peninsula of Florida, and then across the eastern half of the Gulf Coast and surrounding areas.

TROPICAL DEPRESSION TWO FORMS IN THE GULF, WITH HEAVY DOWNPOURS EXPECTED IN THE SOUTHEAST

Here is the map showing the forecast rain based on current forecasts. But higher amounts are likely to fall where a rotating band traverses the same area for an extended period of time.

Notice that the heavier rain bulges north over the eastern Panhandle around Tallahassee because the storm will only slowly make the turn to the left.

Because of the somewhat hostile upper winds and dry air, there's no indication that, from a wind standpoint, it will get terribly strong. But a 60 mph storm is not nothing.

If those sustained winds occur near the coast, gusts will reach hurricane strength.

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Whenever systems are drifting over the warm water of the Gulf, we pay attention, of course.

In the affected areas, plan to stay aware at least until the middle of next week.

Tropical Depression Two forms in the Gulf, with heavy downpours expected in the Southeast

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 09:59:10 -0400

Tropical Depression Two has officially formed in the Gulf of America right off the coast of Florida and is expected to bring heavy downpours to the Southeast.

The storm — formerly known as Invest 91L — will move slowly to the north and north-west on the Southeast coastline.

Tropical Storm Watches have been issued for portions of the Florida Gulf Coast.

Rain from this system has already been reported in Tampa and along Florida's northwestern coast.

Those along Florida's panhandle and along the western coast as well as in coastal Alabama should pay attention to the progress of this system, the NHC said.

WHAT IS AN INVEST DURING HURRICANE SEASON?

The FOX Forecast Center said we will need to watch how far north the tropical depression tracks. If it moves into the Florida panhandle, it will weaken, and the story will be over early. If it stays over water, then the development prospects become more interesting.

Sunday will be the main day to look out for.

HURRICANE SEASON 2026: THESE ARE THE STORM NAMES YOU'LL SEE THIS SEASON

On Friday, the NHC finally placed an "X" on the map, which means there is officially an area of low pressure to track. Not only is there an area of low pressure, but it formed farther away from the coast than originally anticipated, according to the FOX Forecast Center.

Most impacts will come in the form of rain. Wind impacts are not expected unless a tropical depression or tropical storm forms.

Hurricane hunters will begin scheduled flights into Tropical Depression Two starting Sunday. The first flight is set to take off around 1 p.m. ET.

If the system develops into a tropical storm, it'll be given the name Bertha.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30.

This story is developing. Check back frequently for updates.