AP – Tropical Storm Bertha strengthened in the Gulf of Mexico on Tuesday but was expected to weaken as it chugs closer to the United States, potentially bringing coastal flooding and heavy rain from the Florida Panhandle to Louisiana.Those areas along the northern Gulf Coast were under a tropical storm warning through Wednesday and could see heavy rain and flooding into Thursday morning, the Miami-based National Hurricane Center said Tuesday. New Orleans was under a tropical storm watch.

Tropical Depression Two is projected to become Tropical Storm Bertha by Monday, currently positioned south of Panama City, Florida.

The tropical system is forecast to spread heavy rain and storm surge threats as its wind field expands.