Tropical Storm Bertha made landfall in St Bernard parish, Louisiana, on Wednesday with maximum sustained winds of 45mph, according to the US National Hurricane Center. The storm triggered severe weather across the Gulf Coast, closing beaches from Florida to Mississippi and threatening widespread flooding.
Storm Path and Intensity
Bertha is the second named storm of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season. It weakened as it moved inland but still produced strong gusts far from its center. The storm's rapid formation and landfall caught many residents off guard, highlighting the need for early preparedness.
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Comparison to Previous Storms
| Storm | Year | Max Winds (mph) | Landfall Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tropical Storm Bertha | 2025 | 45 | Louisiana |
| Tropical Storm Cristobal | 2020 | 50 | Louisiana |
| Tropical Storm Barry | 2019 | 75 | Louisiana |
While Bertha is weaker than some past storms, its heavy rainfall and associated tornadoes pose serious risks. The storm serves as a reminder that even minimal tropical storms can cause significant damage.
Extreme Weather Outbreak
Separate from Bertha, a band of extreme weather tore through Kentucky, West Virginia, and other states on Tuesday night. Devastating tornadoes and record flash flooding trapped dozens of people in homes and vehicles. In West Virginia, first responders were overwhelmed as waters rose to unprecedented levels, with rescuers cutting through attic roofs to free trapped residents.
Governor Patrick Morrisey placed all 55 West Virginia counties under a state of emergency. He deployed 100 National Guard members to northern areas Wednesday, with 200 more scheduled to arrive.
Kentucky and Regional Impacts
Kentucky reported multiple tornadoes, landslides, and widespread infrastructure damage, including a swept-away bridge. The severe weather threat extended into New Jersey, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. AccuWeather warned that by Wednesday, the danger would shift southward, targeting Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina.
Key Takeaways
- Bertha made landfall with 45mph winds near New Orleans, Louisiana.
- Separate storms produced tornadoes and flash flooding in Kentucky and West Virginia.
- More than 300 National Guard members were activated for emergency response.
- Beaches from Florida to Mississippi closed due to dangerous conditions.
- Residents in affected areas should monitor local alerts and prepare for power outages.
FAQ
What should I do during a tropical storm?
Stay indoors, away from windows. Have an emergency kit with water, food, and medications. Monitor weather updates and follow evacuation orders if issued.
How does tropical storm Bertha compare to past Louisiana storms?
Bertha is weaker than many previous storms, such as Hurricane Katrina or Tropical Storm Barry, but it still brings dangerous flooding and tornado risks. Any tropical system should be taken seriously.
What are the main threats from Bertha right now?
The main threats are heavy rainfall causing flash flooding, isolated tornadoes, and strong wind gusts that can down power lines. Power outages are likely in affected areas.
Stay tuned to GrandGoldman.com for ongoing updates on Tropical Storm Bertha and the extreme weather outbreak. Bookmark our energy and utilities section for recovery resources.