By Rich McKay
As Florida prepares for a possible tropical storm this weekend, experts warn of heavy rain and strong winds that could impact the region. The National Hurricane Center has issued a tropical storm warning for southern Florida, with the storm expected to hit the state's west coast by Saturday night.
If the storm intensifies, it could bring winds of over 70 mph and dump up to a foot of rain in some areas. Governor Ron DeSantis has already declared a state of emergency for most cities and counties in anticipation of the storm's landfall.
Forecasters predict a busy Atlantic hurricane season, with the potential for four to seven major hurricanes out of 25 named storms. While only one hurricane has formed so far this year, experts caution that the current system could still bring significant rainfall to Florida.
Officials stress the importance of preparedness, urging residents to stock up on supplies and secure their homes. The storm is expected to follow a similar path as the devastating 2022 Hurricane Ian, which caused widespread destruction along the Gulf Coast.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing weather system and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety and well-being during this potentially dangerous time.