There is a low probability of tropical development from an area of low pressure in the northern Gulf of Mexico this week, according to the National Weather Service’s Lake Charles office, but heavy rain is expected regardless.

A surface trough of low pressure is expected to develop in the northern Gulf of Mexico from a decaying frontal boundary located over the southeastern United States.

Any development of this system is expected to be slow to occur while it drifts just offshore of the northern Gulf of Mexico coastline through the middle to later part of this week. If it strengthens into a tropical storm, the next available name is Danielle.

Regardless of development, heavy rains will be possible along portions of the northern Gulf coastline from Louisiana to the Florida Panhandle over the next several days, which could lead to areas of flash flooding.

Periods of showers and thunderstorms will be possible daily through at least mid-week in south Louisiana. Up to 6 inches are possible along Louisiana’s coast.