Tropical Storm Arthur forms in Gulf, threatens flooding across Southeast

The big picture: Tropical storm watches and warnings were in effect Wednesday from High Island, Texas, to Morgan City, Louisiana.

• Arthur is forecast to drop 5 to 10 inches of rain through Friday, with some places getting near 20 inches, the National Hurricane Center said in its Wednesday morning forecast.
• Forecasters are warning of flash flooding, storm surge, gusty winds, rip currents and possible tornados, especially in the areas under the storm watches and warnings.

By the numbers: As of 10am, the system was 190 miles southwest of Lake Charles, Louisiana, and moving northeast at 9 mph.

• The Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunters found Wednesday that winds have increased to 40 mph, just above the 39 mph threshold required for tropical storm status.

What's next: Arthur isn't expected to strengthen before landfall overnight Wednesday near the Texas-Louisiana state line. It's expected to weaken quickly and then dissipate once over land.

• See the latest track.