Gulf Storm Forecast to Become Hurricane, Threatening Major US Refining and Offshore Production

Tropical Depression Nine is forecast to strengthen into a hurricane within two days, threatening key U.S. Gulf Coast energy infrastructure across Louisiana and Mississippi. The storm approaches a region housing roughly 50% of the nation's 18.2 million barrels per day refining capacity and critical offshore production hubs, which represent about 15% of total U.S. crude output and 5% of natural gas output. Earlier, the National Hurricane Center raised the system's seven-day development probability to 70%, with private forecasters warning of severe winds and flooding risking 3 million barrels per day of refining capacity in Louisiana.