Key facts
- Isaias is the first Atlantic hurricane of the 2026 season, with 80 mph winds and a minimum pressure of 975mb.
- The hurricane is expected to strengthen to Category 2 before hitting the US northern Gulf coast on Friday.
- NOAA forecasts 75mm to 150mm of rainfall, with up to 250mm in some areas, posing a risk of flash and river flooding.
- Life-threatening storm surge and damaging hurricane-force winds are increasingly likely along the northern Gulf coast.
- A hurricane warning is in effect for the region, with residents advised to prepare for power outages and evacuate if necessary.
- Zimbabwe declared a state of disaster in Masvingo province due to a hailstorm damaging homes and infrastructure.
Hurricane Isaias has intensified into the first Atlantic hurricane of the 2026 season, with sustained winds reaching 80 mph and a minimum central pressure of 975mb. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) anticipates Isaias will strengthen further into a Category 2 hurricane before making landfall on the US northern Gulf coast on Friday.
The Atlantic hurricane season has been unusually quiet due to a strong El Niño, with the first hurricane forming this late only once before in recorded history, on October 8, 1905. This late formation predates the satellite era, which has improved tracking and discovery of non-landfall hurricanes.
Isaias is projected to bring an estimated 75mm to 150mm (2.95in to 5.9in) of rainfall to the Gulf coast by Friday evening local time, with isolated areas potentially receiving up to 250mm. This rainfall carries a risk of flash flooding and isolated river flooding. The NOAA also warned of an increasing risk of life-threatening storm surge along parts of the northern Gulf coast and damaging hurricane-force winds across the Florida panhandle, southern Alabama, and Mississippi. A hurricane warning is already in place, and local residents are advised to prepare for potential long-term power outages, follow official guidance, and evacuate if instructed.
In separate weather events, Zimbabwe declared a state of disaster in the southeastern Masvingo province on Tuesday following a severe hailstorm that caused extensive damage to homes and critical infrastructure. Preliminary assessments indicate that 8,500 households had their roofs completely destroyed, and an additional 15,300 reported shattered windows, leaving many vulnerable as the rainy season commences. The country's power infrastructure was significantly impacted, disrupting drainage and sewerage systems and raising public health concerns.
Meanwhile, a rare tornado touched down in Ulladulla, a town approximately 140 miles (230km) south of Sydney, Australia, on October 3. Tornadoes are infrequent in Australia, with about 50 reported annually. This event reportedly caused property damage and downed trees.