Tropical Storm Dexter Threatens Expanded Gulf Region

Tropical Storm Dexter is forecasted to potentially impact up to 20 million people as it moves from Central Florida toward Louisiana, with New Orleans at risk of heavy rainfall, storm surges, and flooding by Thursday. Spaghetti models show Dexter likely crossing the Florida Panhandle and entering the Gulf, with impacts expected in several Gulf and Southeast states, including Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama, Georgia, and the Carolinas. The National Hurricane Center has raised the chance of Dexter's formation to 40% over the next two days. Even if the storm does not develop fully, significant rainfall and flash flooding are still expected across the affected regions. Environmental conditions in the Gulf are favorable for development if the system moves offshore, but some experts believe a tropical storm is the probable maximum intensity. Authorities urge residents in the projected path to stay updated as forecasts continue to evolve.