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     Based on the current projected path of Tropical Storm Ida, the U.S. Census Bureau today calculated that 2.8 million people could feel the effects of this late season storm as it moves toward the northern Gulf Coast of the United States. Sixteen counties from four different states are under a tropical storm warning, according to the National Hurricane Center.

     According to the Census Bureau's July 1, 2008 estimates, the population within the 16 counties of the tropical storm warning area is 2,814,000. There are four metropolitan statistical areas that are currently under the tropical storm warning. The Gulfport-Biloxi, Miss., metro area has a 2008 population estimate of 235,000. The Mobile, Ala., metro area is estimated at 406,000. The New Orleans metro area has a 2008 population estimate of 1,134,000. The Pensacola, Fla., metro area has a 2008 population estimate of 453,000.

     For current forecast and status of Tropical Storm Ida, please visit the National Hurricane Center web page at <www.nhc.noaa.gov>.

     To view more detailed population data, please visit the Census Bureau's American FactFinder application.