(The NOAA has predicted an “above normal” year of storms with a 70 percent likelihood of 11 to 17 named storms, including five-to-nine hurricanes.)
Several areas in Texas are already under tropical storm warnings and watches, and the NOAA advisory also notes the potential for hazards including tornadoes in south-central Louisiana and the western Florida panhandle, and extensive rain in parts of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida.
“Interests elsewhere along the U.S. Gulf Coast from the central Texas coast to the western Florida Panhandle should monitor the progress of this system,” according to the advisory.
Travelers heading to, from or through an area in the path of the storm might start checking to see how easily and cheaply they can shift plans. (See tips below.) Depending on the details of your travel insurance, for example, you may not be able to back out just yet.