Tropical Storm Bertha Tracker: Gulf Coast Impact & Forecast (2026)

Tropical Storm Bertha formed in the Gulf of Mexico on Monday, becoming the second named storm of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season. The system is heading for southeast Louisiana, with landfall expected this week, and tropical warnings have been issued along the Gulf Coast.

Local news outlets across Louisiana and Florida are providing parish-by-parish and county-level impact forecasts, and storm preparations are underway. Computer models and spaghetti maps are being used to track the storm's path.

Where Is Tropical Storm Bertha Now?

Bertha formed in the Gulf on Monday, according to reports from NOLA.com. The storm is the second named system of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season. As of Monday, the storm was moving toward southeast Louisiana, prompting preparations across the region.

WDSU in New Orleans reported that a Louisiana landfall is expected this week. The station's meteorologists are providing parish-by-parish impact forecasts for viewers in southeast Louisiana.

Tropical Warnings and Watches

Tropical warnings have been issued along the Gulf Coast, according to Gulf Coast News Now. The exact areas under warning were not specified in the available reports, but residents from the Florida Panhandle to the Mississippi River delta should monitor local advisories.

In Florida, WPBF 25 News reported that Bertha formed in Florida's Gulf Coast region. The station is tracking the storm using computer models and maps. WESH 2 in Orlando noted that a system in the Gulf was upgraded to Tropical Storm Bertha, and its meteorologists are tracking the storm with spaghetti models.

Storm Preparations Underway

Residents in southeast Louisiana are making storm preparations, according to NOLA.com. The exact nature of those preparations — whether evacuations, sandbag distribution, or supply runs — was not detailed in the reports, but the region is familiar with the drill.

For those in the path, the standard hurricane-season checklist applies: secure outdoor furniture, fill up gas tanks, stock non-perishable food and water, charge devices, and know your evacuation zone. The Tropical Storm Bertha: Gulf Coast and Louisiana Track for 2026 Hurricane Season article provides additional context on the storm's expected path.

Tracking Bertha: Computer Models and Spaghetti Maps

Meteorologists are relying on computer models and spaghetti maps to forecast Bertha's path. These tools show the range of possible tracks based on different atmospheric conditions. The models are particularly important for a storm like Bertha, which formed quickly and is moving toward a populated coastline.

WESH 2's Tony Mainolfi and Madilyn Destefano are among the meteorologists tracking the system. Their reports indicate that the storm is battling dry air and some wind shear, which could affect its intensity before landfall.

What to Expect This Week

Landfall is expected this week, but the exact timing and location remain uncertain. The storm's path could shift, so residents from the Florida Panhandle to Louisiana should stay informed. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is the primary source for official forecasts, watches, and warnings.

For those in Florida, the Perseid Meteor Shower 2026: How to See Up to 100 Shooting Stars Per Hour article offers a celestial distraction, but for now, the focus should be on the storm.

Stay Safe During the Storm

If you are in the path of Tropical Storm Bertha, follow the guidance of local emergency management officials. Do not drive through flooded roads, and avoid downed power lines. Have a plan for where to go if an evacuation is ordered.

The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season is off to an active start, with Bertha following closely on the heels of the first named storm. Residents along the Gulf Coast should remain vigilant throughout the season.

For the latest updates on Bertha's track and intensity, check your local National Weather Service office and trusted news sources. The Tropical Storm Bertha: Gulf Coast and Louisiana Track for 2026 Hurricane Season article will be updated as new information becomes available.