A massive weather system brewing in the Gulf of Mexico has meteorologists on high alert as Tropical Storm Dexter threatens to impact up to 20 million Americans across multiple states this week.

According to Daily Mail, the latest spaghetti models show the storm barreling through Central Florida before heading toward Louisiana, where cities like New Orleans could face severe flooding and storm surges by Thursday.

Meteorologist Levi Cowan's projections indicate that every spaghetti line for the tropical storm cuts across the Florida Panhandle before moving into the Gulf of Mexico and approaching Louisiana, suggesting a high degree of confidence in the storm's projected path.

Storm's Destructive Path Raises Major Concerns

The National Hurricane Center is closely monitoring the weather disturbance, currently giving it a 40 percent chance of developing into a tropical cyclone within 48 hours. If it strengthens as expected, the system will be officially named Tropical Storm Dexter.

AccuWeather meteorologists predict the storm could bring as much as eight inches of rain to parts of Louisiana and Mississippi by Wednesday night, potentially causing widespread flooding. The system has already disrupted air travel, with over 18,000 flight delays and 3,800 cancellations reported earlier this week.

Forecasters warn that Dexter could reach tropical storm status by Wednesday night, with sustained winds potentially reaching up to 60 mph. This intensification poses significant risks to coastal communities.

Widespread Impact Across Multiple States

The storm's effects are expected to reach far beyond the Gulf Coast. At least 20 states face high flooding risks as Dexter moves inland between Thursday and Saturday.

This includes Southern states like Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas, and Arkansas; Midwestern states such as Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, and Michigan; and Northeastern states including New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia.

Meteorologists are particularly concerned about the possibility of the storm stalling over the Gulf states, which could lead to prolonged heavy rainfall and elevated flood threats throughout the Mississippi River Valley.

Critical Weather Warnings Issued

A three-foot storm surge is predicted for New Orleans, raising serious concerns about flooding in vulnerable areas like the Lower Ninth Ward and around Lake Pontchartrain. AccuWeather experts warn this could quickly lead to dangerous conditions.

Power outages and hazardous flash floods similar to those recently experienced in New York and Texas are possible once the storm strengthens in the Gulf. The AccuWeather team emphasizes that if the tropical system slows or stalls after landfall, it could bring extended periods of heavy rainfall.

Emergency management officials are urging residents in affected areas to prepare for potential evacuations and stock up on essential supplies. The storm's slow-moving nature could compound the flooding risks and complicate rescue efforts.

Weather Experts Urge Immediate Preparation

The latest spaghetti models from meteorologist Levi Cowan paint a concerning picture for millions of Americans in Tropical Storm Dexter's path. With nearly every projection showing the storm moving through New Orleans before spiraling north into the Midwest, emergency preparations are underway across multiple states.

Weather experts emphasize that residents in affected areas should stay alert for updates and take necessary precautions. The combination of heavy rainfall, storm surge, and potential flooding poses significant risks to both coastal and inland communities across the eastern United States.

The National Hurricane Center continues to monitor the situation closely, with updates expected as the storm system develops. Emergency management officials recommend that residents in potentially affected areas review their evacuation plans and prepare emergency supplies immediately.