Alberto currently sits in the southeastern Gulf of Mexico and is on its way north. It is still an unorganized system, hampered by a decent amount of wind shear as well as some dry air on its west side. The result continues to be a lopsided storm with all the rain and wind concentrated east of the center. Environmental conditions should gradually improve and the official forecast calls for slow strengthening over the next 36 hours as Alberto heads towards the east-central Gulf Coast.

A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for… Bonita beach to the Anclote River… The Aucilla River to MS/AL border.

A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for… the MS/AL border to the mouth of the Pearl River

A Storm Surge Watch in effect for… Crystal River to the mouth of the Pearl River

Around Tampa Bay on Sunday, expect rounds of heavy rain, higher than normal tides, a high rip current risk, and a low-end tornado threat.

Subtropical Storm Alberto is still a disorganized system with convection focused on the east side of the storm. The latest track has shifted a little east but still keeps Alberto well offshore in the Gulf.

As Alberto moves north into an area of lower wind shear it will likely strengthen and become more tropical in nature. After landfall along the northern Gulf Coast as a possible tropical storm, Alberto will steadily weaken.

Tropical Storm Watches have been issued for coastal areas from Pinellas to Sarasota counties. Winds will increase Sunday with gusts to 40 mph possible along the coast. The strongest winds remain offshore close to the center of circulation.

Expect heavy rain and thunderstorms tonight through Sunday with localized flooding. An additional 4-8″ of rain is possible over the next 7 days. The ground is already saturated from recent rainfall and rivers are running high. If you encounter a roadway covered in water, Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Isolated weak and brief tornadoes are possible tonight into Sunday.

Dangerous boating conditions with a high risk of rip currents continues through Memorial Day. Tides one to two feet above normal.