FOG BLOG WEATHER LOG: HURRICANE IDA NOW A CAT 2 STORM TO INTENSIFY AND WILL TAKE AIM AT LOUISIANA!

Hurricane Ida Becomes a Category 2; Expected to Rapidly Intensity Until Landfall in Louisiana...Hurricane Ida is centered in the Gulf of Mexico.

• Ida is forecast to grow into a major hurricane as it tracks toward the northern Gulf Coast.

• Interests along the northern U.S. Gulf Coast should finish hurricane preparations now.....Hurricane Ida is forecast to rapidly intensify into a major hurricane as it draws closer to the northern Gulf Coast this weekend, where it will bring life-threatening storm surge, dangerous rainfall flooding, potentially catastrophic winds and tornadoes.

Ida is currently centered several hundred miles southeast of New Orleans and is tracking northwest at 16 mph. Maximum sustained winds are 100 mph, making Ida a Category 2 hurricane.

Interests along the northern Gulf Coast from Louisiana to Alabama should monitor Ida's progress closely and finish hurricane preparations on Saturday. Follow the advice of local officials if you are ordered to evacuate.