NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — It's looking more likely that we will see a named storm in the Gulf of Mexico by the early part of next week. The NHC has upped the chance of development to 70% Friday evening. This system is already showing signs of organization in the western Gulf with a flare up of thunderstorms. Several models are now showing a system that develops a closed circulation in the central Gulf as it moves east towards the Florida peninsula. At this point at least a tropical storm looks likely, and we could see a hurricane before landfall. This will not be a major impact to southeast Louisiana or southern Mississippi. What we will see are swells over the Gulf that would make for rough boating conditions. Increased northeasterly flow could also lead to minor coastal flooding Sunday and Monday. The main threat to the Florida peninsula will likely be heavy rain. A cold front will push through our area with nice weather by Tuesday. This will keep any tropical activity to our south. 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 FNF Week 5: Mandeville dominates Northshore in a 42-0 victory FNF Week 5: Lakeshore beats Salmen 31-26 FNF Week 5: Pearl River beats Chalmette 14-7 FNF Week 5: Archbishop Shaw defeats De La Salle 31-13 FNF Week 5: Isidore Newman routs Riverdale in a 49-21 victory