Latest Ida Forecast Track

Hi everybody. Ida is now again a tropical storm. Tropical storm warnings are in effect for Western Cuba and the Yucatan. Global models are in good agreement that Ida will move north into the Gulf and some restrengthening is likely. Even though the Gulf waters are extremly warm, it should be noted that about a 20 knot shear will prevail. This will help to curtail any major strengthening. In the latter part of the forecast, Ida will begin a process of turning to an extratropical storm. Almost all global models show the cyclone drifting south at this time.The new forecast track and intensity forecast reflect this interaction with the shear and the trough and is in good agreement with the models. Although we are in the cone, the exact extent of a threat, if any, is not yet clear. Please moniter this situation carefully over the next few days. You can always get the latest tracks and text advisories at Hurricane Central or Home Town Weather.