ALERT: Tropical Storm Bertha Could Cause Potential Gulf Coast Transportation Disruptions
As Tropical Storm Bertha continues tracking across the northern Gulf of Mexico, manufacturers and supply chain teams should closely monitor conditions. The storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall, localized flooding, gusty winds, and coastal impacts across portions of the Florida Panhandle, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana before weakening as it moves inland. Forecasts also indicate portions of Southeast Texas could be impacted later this week.
Potential Transportation Impacts
While Bertha is not expected to become a major hurricane before landfall and conditions will vary by location, customers should anticipate the possibility of:
Longer transit times due to road closures and heavy congestion from flooding or standing water
Temporary capacity constraints as carriers reposition equipment and drivers to manage storm effects
Power outages that may impact distribution centers, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities
Operations moving through the Gulf Coast region—including Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Southeast Texas—should remain flexible as weather conditions evolve.
Preparing for the Remainder of Hurricane Season
Tropical Storm Bertha serves as an important reminder that the Atlantic hurricane season is only beginning with heightened activity typically seen from August through October.
Proactive planning is key to reducing potential disruptions. Consider taking the following proactive steps:
Review production schedules and identify time-sensitive shipments.
Ship critical freight ahead of approaching storms whenever possible.
Increase inventory levels for essential components at vulnerable facilities.
Develop alternate routing options for freight in hurricane-prone regions.
Confirm emergency contacts with logistics providers, suppliers, and customers.
Review contingency transportation plans for expedited capacity if needed.
Monitor weather forecasts and communicate potential schedule changes early across your supply chain.
Early planning often provides the greatest opportunity to minimize production interruptions, avoid premium transportation costs, and maintain customer service during severe weather events.
ProTrans Tip Sheet: Mitigating the Risks of Hurricane Season