A tropical depression formed in the Gulf of Mexico Sunday morning and is expected to reach tropical storm strength as it approaches the Florida Panhandle early in the coming week, according to the National Hurricane Center.
A tropical storm watch is in effect for portions of Florida and NHC forecasters said increased storm chances and flash flooding are likely across much of the Gulf Coast through Thursday, including in southern Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. Those with interests in the region should closely monitor the system over the next few days, forecasters said.
The tropical depression was about 155 miles south of Panama City, Florida, as of 10 a.m. Sunday, producing winds of 30 mph. The system is expected to move slowly north or northwestward over the next few days…