The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has confirmed that Tropical Storm Bertha has formed 190 miles off the coast of Mobile.
The depression strengthened into a tropical storm just before 7 p.m. Monday. It is moving at 3 mph west-northwestward, with maximum sustained winds reaching 40 mph.
The Alabama coast is under a tropical storm watch and a storm surge watch. Additional watches are expected.
Bertha will move along the northern Gulf Coast over the next several days, bringing with it strong winds and heavy rain. Rainfall amounts are forecasted to be up to 8 inches in isolated areas with 2 to 4 inches in most areas through Friday.
Baldwin County EMA director Tom Tyler told 1819 News that swells could be life-threatening and could cause rip current conditions. He said he expects local municipalities to fly double-red flags in the following days, closing the water to the public.
“We've got surf warnings out right now. We've got surge warnings out right now. They're talking eight to 10 foot waves,” Tyler said. “We're right here in the middle of our summer season, and there's going to be people out that see those incredibly big waves and they're going to be tempted to get into them. God forbid those adventurous souls want to get out in the Gulf and play in that rough surf. I really do hope that we have people that make good decisions and choose not to do that.”
Tyler said the EMA is reaching out to local businesses to warn residents and visitors.
Beachgoers can text ALBEACHES to 888777 to receive daily beach conditions and warning flag status.
The Baldwin County EMA has also provided safety tips online.
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