Tropical Storm Bertha expected to make landfall in Southeast Louisiana Wednesday

Tropical Storm Bertha is expected to make landfall between Wednesday afternoon and Wednesday evening, July 22, 2026, around Southeast Louisiana, MEMA said. Most of the storm’s rainfall is forecast to remain over the Gulf of Mexico, but a 4-foot storm surge along the coast is possible, the agency said.

Even when heavy rain stays offshore, storm surge can push water onto beaches, roads and low-lying areas and create hazardous conditions for coastal communities. Surge-driven flooding and strong currents can pose dangers to residents and emergency responders, even if onshore winds and rainfall are limited.

MEMA said it will continue to monitor Tropical Storm Bertha as it makes landfall. Officials with state and local emergency management agencies typically coordinate watches, warnings and public safety messaging during tropical systems.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30, and storms like Bertha underscore the need for coastal communities to follow local guidance. We will provide more information as it becomes available.