### Heavy Rain and Coastal Warnings Expected as Tropical Rainstorm Sara Approaches Gulf Coast

The remnants of Tropical Storm Sara have mostly dissipated after entering the Gulf of Mexico, but the storm's lingering moisture is set to bring heavy rainfall to regions between eastern Louisiana and the Florida Panhandle this week, according to AccuWeather. Sara, which never intensified into a hurricane, caused severe flooding and mudslides in parts of Honduras, dumping up to 40 inches of rain before reaching the southern Gulf of Mexico.

Although the National Hurricane Center confirmed Sara's dissipation around 3 a.m. Monday morning, the system’s moisture is now being carried northward and is referred to by AccuWeather as Tropical Rainstorm Sara. AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva forecasts that the storm could lead to flooding downpours from eastern Louisiana to the Florida Panhandle from Monday night through Tuesday night, with predicted rainfall totals of 2-4 inches.

The Florida Panhandle will also experience strong winds. DaSilva notes, "Winds can occasionally gust to 40-60 mph, with the highest gusts likely along the coast coinciding with heavier downpours." Florida can also expect flash flooding, isolated tornadoes, and dangerous marine conditions from Tuesday as Tropical Rainstorm Sara approaches.

DaSilva also indicated a significant risk of rip currents along the Gulf Coast due to the tropical rainstorm, starting Monday and continuing through Wednesday. This warning coincides with a high rip current risk advisory in effect for Escambia, Santa Rosa, and Okaloosa coastal counties. Additionally, these areas are under a coastal flood advisory from 6 p.m. Monday to 6 a.m. Tuesday, expecting flooded lots, parks, and roads, while the NWS has issued a high surf advisory from Monday evening until Wednesday morning.

Looking ahead, Pensacola can anticipate a wetter spell this week due to the remnants of the storm, followed by cooler and drier conditions as the week progresses. According to the National Weather Service Office Mobile/Pensacola, temperatures will range from highs in the 70s-80s to lows in the mid-50s to upper 40s by week’s end.

Pensacola Beach remains under several advisories due to the remnants of Tropical Storm Sara. The current flag conditions at Pensacola Beach are red, and tomorrow's beach flag forecast anticipates a 60% red flag and 40% double red flag warning, indicating hazardous ocean conditions. The water temperature stands at 74 degrees.