As of 5 p.m. Thursday, Tropical Depression 2 has formed in the northeastern Gulf of Mexico. The depression has the potential to bring Southwest Florida periods of rain through the weekend, which could cause localized flooding.

Within the last 24 hours, the disturbance has become better organized with well-defined circulation. While the depression is currently almost stationary, moving west-northwest at 2 mph, it has the potential to briefly strengthen into a tropical storm late Thursday or early Friday before drifting south and falling apart.

If it does become a tropical storm, it would take on the name Arlene. The system will likely remain offshore of Florida, but we will be indirectly impacted with heavy rainfall estimated around 1-3 inches and isolated higher amounts.

A Flood Watch is in effect for Glades and Hendry counties until early Saturday morning. 

ABC7’s Most Accurate Weather Team will keep you updated with any development from this system and any other potential disturbances through the 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season.