The change in forecast was a welcomed development as the New Orleans area steels itself for the approaching heart of the hurricane season.

The system’s slow passage over Florida has meant days of rain throughout the state, leading to street flooding in South Florida. However, the Miami office of the National Weather Service expects the rain to slow down, alleviating any concerns about deep flooding.

The summer of flooding and irritant-level tropical threats rolls with this week’s focus on a disorganized disturbance in the northern Gulf.

Hurricane center forecasters said the system, designated as Invest 93L, is forecast to continue moving westward and could emerge or redevelop.

Central Florida to experience heavy rain and storms with potential for a tropical depression and lightning, as predicted by NWS Melbourne FL.