NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Potential Tropical Cyclone 9 still lacks a well-defined center Monday evening and has not become more organized. An upper low to the west is likely adding some wind shear which has limited the strengthening so far. However this will be changing through the day Tuesday and Helene will likely form. Storm to Enter Gulf of Mexico by Wednesday The NHC predicts the center of the disturbance will pass between the Yucatan Peninsula and the western tip of Cuba late Tuesday night, then enter the southern Gulf of Mexico by Wednesday. From there, it will likely accelerate northward, steered by a deep trough over the central U.S. and a ridge of high pressure over the western Atlantic, heading toward the northeastern Gulf Coast and Florida Panhandle by Thursday. Wind shear, which has been limiting the system's development, is expected to decrease in the next 24 to 48 hours. This change, combined with deep warm waters and a very moist environment, should allow the system to become better organized. Rapid Intensification Expected Once it forms an inner core, rapid intensification is likely. The NHC forecasts the system to strengthen into a hurricane by Wednesday and reach major hurricane status by Thursday as it moves over the eastern Gulf. Models have backed off on the intensity some in the evening runs on Monday night. However this will likely be a major storm at landfall and could still reach category 4 strength briefly. Potential Storm Impacts As the system crosses the Gulf, it is expected to grow in size, with impacts from storm surge, wind, and rainfall extending far from the center, particularly to the east. The system's fast movement toward the coast could also lead to gusty winds penetrating further inland across parts of the southeastern U.S. after landfall. That will likely be the main issue with this system in terms of a widespread path of wind damage. Storm Surge and Hurricane Watches are likely to be issued tonight or Tuesday morning. Residents in these areas should finalize their hurricane preparedness plans. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts Rookie Jayden Daniels nearly flawless for Commanders in 38-33 win over Bengals Lower humidity later in the week Helene likely to strengthen rapidly once in the eastern Gulf Ohio woman has 'miracle' baby after husband's tragic death on honeymoon Volunteers want sheriff to pick up human remains found in desert