Tropical Storm Isaac’s forecast path shifted slightly west, but remains draped across the New Orleans area in the National Hurricane Center’s 4 a.m. forecast. But forecasters now say Isaac is likely to grow only to strong Category 1 strength, with top winds of 90 mph, when its center crosses the mouth of the Mississippi River at about 2 a.m. Wednesday.

The National Hurricane Center Isaac’s forecast track has changed little this morning. At 7 a.m., Isaac was 360 miles southeast of the mouth of the Mississippi River, with maximum sustained winds of 65 mph. The storm was traveling west northwest at 14 mph, and its tropical storm force winds extended outward as much as 240 miles.

Those tropical storm force winds, 39 mph or greater, could occur as early as tonight in lower lying areas while the center of the storm will take about 24 hours to move along a northwesterly line along the Mississippi River.

Isaac’s forecast path remains uncertain, spreading out during the time the storm reaches shore, ranging from central Louisiana to the Mississippi-Alabama line. But most continue to show the storm crossing the coast at or just west of the Mississippi River. Isaac’s pressure has fallen, a signal that normally indicate strengthening but the aircraft didn’t find stronger winds indicating a lack of structure. As a result, the new forecast calls for only gradual strengthening over its first 12 hours, with steadier strengthening expected afterward until landfall.

The forecast changes prompted the National Weather Service to lower its wind speed predictions to an average 60 to 80 mph sustained winds, with gusts to 100 mph over most of the New Orleans area.

New Orleans Area Port and Rail Operations Update

New Orleans Container Terminal (MSC) gate and yard operations will close for 2 pm today and reopen once T.S. Isaac has passed. Out of gauge cargo, reefer or hazardous containers are not being accepted are aare are not being accepted at present.

Ports America Container Terminal is currently open but is not accepting out of gauge cargo, reefer or hazardous containers. Ports America will be closed on Tuesday and Wednesday at this time. I will revert after our 0900 meeting regarding the plan for the next 2 days on the container side.

Ports America Break-bulk Terminal operations will continue through normal hours today (0800-1700) but will be closed Tuesday August 28, 2012 and Wednesday August 29, 2012.

Rail Operators are working shortened hours only to receive in out-gated equipment.

Port of Gulfport is closed until the storm has safely passed.

An additional update will follow regarding J.W. Allen & Company plans and operations.