The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is closely monitoring a weather disturbance in the Gulf of America designated as Invest 91L. This system is currently bringing heavy rain to Florida particularly along the panhandle and western coast, as well as coastal Alabama.
The term invest is used to identify areas under investigation for potential development into a tropical depression or storm within the next seven days. As of the latest update, Invest 91L has a 20% chance of development over the next two days and a 30% chance over the next week.
Current Status and Forecast
Invest 91L was designated on Saturday, July 18, 2026 and is currently located over the northeastern Gulf, just off Florida’s west coast. Satellite imagery shows an impressive area of showers and thunderstorms, but there is no well-defined surface low at this time. The system is expected to move slowly to the north and northwest.
The primary concern with this system is heavy rainfall especially across parts of Florida, including the Panhandle and Big Bend, through early next week. The Weather Prediction Center forecasts significant rain amounts through next Saturday. Wind impacts are not expected unless the system develops into a tropical depression or storm.
Potential Development and Naming
If Invest 91L develops into a tropical storm, it will be given the name Bertha. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, and this system is being closely monitored as it has the potential to impact the region.
Some forecast guidance keeps the disturbance weak as it drifts northward across the northeastern Gulf. Other models, including the more aggressive GRAF model suggest the system could linger over the northern Gulf for several days, allowing more time for gradual development while slowly drifting westward.
Impacts and Precautions
For the Gulf coast of Florida, poor beach and boating conditions are expected due to the cloud cover and rainfall. The risk for rip currents will also be increased for those visiting Gulf beaches. Although the chance for development is low, this system could gradually drift over northern Florida or the Southeast coast early next week.
Conditions are not highly favorable for development, but sea surface temperatures are in the 80s, so the NHC will continue to monitor the system closely. Residents in the affected areas should stay informed and be prepared for potential heavy rainfall and other weather impacts.
As a reminder, July is not typically an active month for tropical activity, which traditionally picks up in August and September. This is a good time to ensure that your hurricane plan is up to date.
