Tropical Depression 18 is expected to develop into a hurricane this week as it moves northwest across the Caribbean and into the Gulf of Mexico.

National Weather Service Lake Charles Storm Warning Coordinator Doug Cramer said once the system moves into the Gulf it is expected to weaken.

“The reason for that is the high wind shear and cooling ocean temperatures,” Cramer said. “We’re not too concerned of major impacts. We think this storm will weaken into a tropical storm or depression when it hits the Gulf Coast.”

Cramer said the most likely arrival time for any tropical storm-force wind is Friday afternoon.

“November tropical storm systems in the Gulf of Mexico aren’t common, but they’re not impossible, either,” Cramer said.

As his office continues to monitor the storm, he said they also have their eye on a cold front that will be approaching the region Tuesday.

“Expect very breezy southerly winds ahead of the front that will make for a wind advisory for portions of southeast Texas and Southwest and south central Louisiana,” Cramer said. “These strong southerly winds will also occur over the coastal waters with a small craft advisory in effect.”

Southernly wind gusts of 35 mph are possible.

Numerous showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop with this approaching front.

A coastal flood warning is in effect for Cameron.