Every time we think 2020 cannot get worse, another tropical storm enters the battle arena. 

Heading towards the Gulf of Mexico, Delta is currently the 25th named storm of 2020. Delta’s winds were up to 70 mph as of October 5th. The storm is predicted to enter Louisiana by Friday, October 9th, and is expected to bring up to 3 inches of rain. If the storm continues on its current path, Alabama will be hit later this week. However, the duration of the storm’s stay is currently unclear. 

The National Weather Service in Mobile says that you should begin to check your preparedness kits, especially if it was damaged by Hurricane Sally. Your preparedness kit should consist of: 

• Water 
• Canned foods (or any food that does not required power) 
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio
• Flashlight
• First aid kit
• Extra batteries & battery packs
• Dust masks 
• Whistle (to signal for assistance)
• Plastic sheeting or duct tape 
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags, or plastic ties
• Wrenches or pliers 
• Manual can openers
• Local maps 
• Sleeping bags or extra sheets
• Books, board games, or other activities in case of power outages

Delta is strengthening each day. The storm is currently only 4 mph short of being a hurricane. It is estimated to reach maximum winds of 96-110 mph. The rainfall is expected to diminish as Delta keeps a forward motion, however, the rain it does bring will be copious. It has already battered parts of Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and western Cuba. 

If Delta is to reach the U.S., it would be the 10th storm this season. This will break the record, previously set in 1916, when a number of nine storms hit the shores of the south.