The Gulf of Mexico is now home to Tropical Depression Two, a weather system that has meteorologists closely monitoring its progress. The National Hurricane Center has issued a Tropical Storm Watch for a stretch of Florida’s coast, from the Ochlockonee River to the Alabama border. This watch indicates that tropical storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours.
As of 10:00 PM CDT on Sunday, July 19, 2026, the center of Tropical Depression Two was located near latitude 28.0 North and longitude 85.1 West, approximately 155 miles southeast of Panama City, Florida. The depression is moving slowly toward the north-northwest at a speed of 3 mph. Forecasters predict a gradual turn toward the west-northwest or west in the coming days, bringing the system closer to the northern Gulf coast.
Current Status and Forecast
The depression currently has maximum sustained winds of 30 mph, with higher gusts. Forecasters expect gradual strengthening, with the depression likely to become a tropical storm by Monday. The minimum central pressure is recorded at 1008 mb, or 29.77 inches, based on data from NOAA buoy 42036.
Forecaster Blake from the National Hurricane Center notes that additional tropical storm watches or warnings may be required over the next day or two as the system evolves. Residents in the watch area should stay informed and be prepared for Potential tropical storm conditions.
Potential Hazards
The primary hazards associated with Tropical Depression Two include windstorm surge and rainfall. Tropical storm conditions are possible within the watch area by late Monday. The combination of storm surge and the tide could cause normally dry areas near the coast to be flooded by rising waters moving inland from the shoreline.
For the area from Indian Pass to Chassahowitzka, Florida the water could reach heights of 1 to 3 feet above ground if the peak surge occurs at high tide. Surge-related flooding can vary greatly over short distances, so residents should monitor local weather updates for specific information.
The tropical depression is expected to produce rainfall amounts of 2 to 4 inches, with locally higher totals around 8 inches, through Friday along the Gulf Coast and adjacent inland locations from western Florida to the Middle Texas Coast. This rainfall may produce areas of flash flooding, especially in urban areas.
Swell generated by the depression is already affecting portions of the Gulf coast of Florida and is likely to spread westward during the week. These swells could cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions. Residents and visitors should exercise caution when venturing into the water.
The next intermediate advisory will be issued at 1:00 AM CDT, followed by a complete advisory at 4:00 AM CDT. Residents in the watch area should monitor the latest updates from the National Hurricane Center and their local National Weather Service forecast office for information specific to their area.
Preparedness is key during such weather events. Residents should ensure they have an emergency kit ready, including essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, and important documents. Staying informed and following the advice of local authorities can help mitigate the impacts of the storm.