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Forecasters are watching Tropical Storm Bertha, the second named storm of the 2026 hurricane season, as it makes landfall across the Gulf Coast.
Impacts from the storm are expected to begin on the Mississippi Coast today, July 22, Danielle Manning, Lead Meteorologist at the National Weather Service New Orleans, told McClatchy News in a July 21 email.
According to forecasters, this storm is unique because it’s happening alongside a heat advisory, with heat index values up to 112 degrees.
“People should take precautions to avoid heat-related illness such as staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during the afternoon hours, taking breaks in the air conditioning or shade, and wearing light-weight and light-colored clothing,” Manning said.
Here’s what else to know about Tropical Storm Bertha on the Mississippi Coast.
How much rain could MS Coast get?
Most areas of the Mississippi Coast are expected to see less than an inch of rain from this storm, Manning said.
“Due to the fact that it is lopsided as a result of wind shear, most of the heavy rain will remain over the Gulf,” she said.
Where is the storm coming from?
The storm is coming from about 90 miles southwest of Panama City Beach, Florida, according to the National Hurricane Center.
When will the storm hit MS Coast? How long will storm impacts last?
Impacts from Tropical Storm Bertha are expected to begin early today, July 22 and last through midday Thursday, July 23, Manning said. Some isolated showers and storms could stick around into the afternoon on July 23, she said.
According to the NWS New Orleans, South Mississippians can expect the following impacts from the storm:
- Storm surge flooding of up to four feet along the immediate coast
- Flooding on low-lying coastal roads and under-home storage in lowest areas
- Tropical storm winds of 40 miles per hour or more, mostly in gusts. This could break tree limbs and lead to some isolated power outages
- Isolated to scattered showers and storms, which could lead to localized flooding
How to stay safe during flooding in South MS
Here are some safety tips for flooding in South Mississippi, according to the American Red Cross:
- Avoid any flooded areas and any areas subject to flooding like dips, rivers, streams, creeks and storm drains
- Do not try to drive over flowing streams or water covered roads
- Try to get to higher ground if caught in a flash flood
- Turn around and find a different route if you come upon floodwater, rapidly rising water or barricades
- Don’t let kids play in or near flood water as it may be contaminated with sewage
