Isaias strengthens to strong Category 2 hurricane with 105-mph winds, forecasted to become Cat. 3 on Friday

HOUSTON - Hurricane Isaias has become a strong Category 2 storm as it moves north across the Gulf.

What we know:

Isaias, the first hurricane of the 2026 Atlantic season, is located in the central Gulf. As of 10 p.m. Thursday, the National Hurricane Center said Isaias has 105 mph winds. 

The forecast calls for Isaias to continue to strengthen as it moves closer to the northern Gulf Coast, likely becoming a Category 3 storm by Friday. Landfall is expected late Friday or early Saturday near Pensacola, Florida.

What does Isaias mean for Texas?

Hurricane Isaias is not forecast to be a big problem for Texas. However, anytime there is a tropical system in the Gulf, it is worth watching closely.

It doesn’t take a landfalling tropical system to cause problems for coastal Texas. With a system in the Gulf, rip currents and coastal flooding can become problems in addition to the heavy rain and gusty winds that they can bring.

Local perspective:

The National Weather Service has warned of dangerous rip currents along the Texas coast. Anyone getting into the water should pay close attention to flags flying at Texas beaches. 

Small craft advisories have also been issued because of rough seas as Isaias churns nearby.

Parts of the Texas coast will also see enhanced rainfall chances this weekend as the system moves toward the northern Gulf Coast, but the amounts look low.

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