US forecasts hurricane later this week in Gulf of Mexico
USO•US forecasters said Tropical Depression Nine is expected to become the first Atlantic hurricane of 2026 within two days and approach the northern Gulf Coast on Friday. The storm’s path includes offshore areas producing 15% of US crude oil and 5% of its natural gas, as well as six refineries.
1. Storm forecast
The National Hurricane Center said Tropical Depression Nine would reach tropical storm strength by early Wednesday, pass north of the Yucatan Peninsula on Thursday and approach the US northern Gulf Coast on Friday.
2. Energy infrastructure
The storm is forecast to pass offshore oil and gas production areas and onshore areas with major refineries. Gulf offshore areas in its path produce 15% of US crude oil and 5% of the country’s natural gas.
3. Refineries in path
The storm could affect six refineries operated by Shell, Valero Energy, Marathon, PBF Energy and Chevron. Refineries in US Gulf states account for about 50% of the nation’s 18.2 million barrels-per-day capacity.
