Tropical Storm Arlene has formed in the Gulf of Mexico

Tropical Storm Arlene has become the first named storm of the 2023 Atlantic Hurricane season. Arlene is not expected to last long and is not expected to make landfall in the U.S.

According to the National Hurricane Center, T​ropical Storm Arlene has formed in the eastern Gulf of Mexico. This assessment was made after the Hurricane Hunters found tropical storm-force winds early Friday, allowing the National Hurricane Center to upgrade the depression to Tropical Storm Arlene.

Right now, the WeatherRadar shows Arlene centered more than 300 miles off the coast of western Florida and moving slowly to the south at 5 mph. Sustained winds are clocking in at 40 mph with this storm. While much of the rain associated with Arlene is offshore, Florida will continue to experience heavy bands of rain associated with this storm. Unsettled surf is also an issue and something beachgoers should watch for on Florida's western coast.

Unfavorable upper-level wind shear will continue to impact the storm, and no strengthening is forecast. Arlene is expected to weaken and fizzle out by Saturday. Weather & Radar's expert meteorologists will keep you up-to-date on the latest.