The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season continues to become more active as Tropical Depression Two is expected to strengthen into Tropical Storm Bertha, according to the National Hurricane Center.

As of Monday morning, the system was located approximately 100 miles south of the eastern Florida Panhandle with maximum sustained winds of 35 mph. Forecasters expect the storm to strengthen while moving slowly along the northern Gulf Coast over the next several days.

While South Florida is not currently expected to receive a direct impact, tropical systems can shift, and now is the perfect time for homeowners across Florida to make sure they’re prepared before severe weather arrives.

What We Know So Far

Meteorologists expect Tropical Depression Two to become Tropical Storm Bertha, the second named storm of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season.

Current forecasts indicate:

• Tropical Storm Watches have been issued for portions of the northern Gulf Coast.
• Storm surge and coastal flooding are possible in affected areas.
• Heavy rainfall is expected across parts of the Florida Panhandle, the Big Bend region, and portions of the Southeast.
• Forecast models still show some uncertainty regarding the exact track later this week.

As always, residents should continue monitoring updates from the National Hurricane Center as forecasts evolve.

Why Florida Homeowners Should Prepare Now

Every hurricane season serves as an important reminder that preparation should happen before a storm is in the forecast for your area.

Whether you’re in Palm Beach County, Broward County, the Treasure Coast, Central Florida, or anywhere else in the state, having a plan today can save time, money, and stress later.

Ask yourself:

• Would your home have power if the grid goes down?
• Is your generator serviced and ready to run?
• Do you have enough fuel if your system uses propane?
• Have your electrical systems been inspected recently?
• Is your A/C system operating properly during extreme summer heat?

These are all items that become much harder to address once a storm is approaching.

Don’t Wait Until Everyone Else Does

One thing we see every hurricane season is the sudden rush for emergency service once a storm develops.

As demand increases, appointment availability becomes limited and supply shortages can occur. Taking care of maintenance, inspections, or backup power planning now helps ensure your home is ready before severe weather threatens your area.

How RACK Can Help

Our team is here to help Florida homeowners prepare for hurricane season with:

• Whole-home generator installations
• Generator maintenance and inspections
• Electrical services and repairs
• Propane tank installation and fuel delivery
• A/C maintenance, repairs, and system replacements

Preparing early gives you more options-and greater peace of mind.

Stay Informed

The forecast for Tropical Depression Two, soon to become Tropical Storm Bertha, may continue to change over the coming days. Continue following updates from the National Hurricane Center and trusted local weather officials.

At RACK, we’ll continue sharing important weather updates and preparedness tips throughout hurricane season to help keep our communities ready.

Need help preparing your home?

Whether you’re considering a backup generator, scheduling generator maintenance, checking your electrical system, or servicing your A/C before the next storm, the RACK team is ready to help.

One Call. One Team.