Gulf Coast Prepares for Tropical Storm Hermine as Possibility of Hurricane Looms

Florida is being warned to prepare for arriving Tropical Storm Hermine, which is expected to dump heavy rain, bring strong winds and the possibility of isolated tornadoes across parts of the state, according to the Florida Division of Emergency Management.

Rainfall amounts of five to 10 inches are expected for Big Bend and Northeast Florida, leading to flash flood watches for those areas. Strong storm surges along the coast and wind gusts averaging 40 mph and possibly peaking at 65 mph are also expected, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Florida’s Gulf Coast is at the epicenter of Tropical Storm Hermine, which still has the possibility of becoming a hurricane by late tonight. If the storm builds, it would be the first hurricane to hit the state since the devastating 2004-2005 storm seasons.

Florida Gov. Rick Scott declared a state of emergency in Florida’s 42 counties on Wednesday in preparation of the incoming storm.

“I have been closely monitoring this storm’s development and our emergency management officials have been working hard to make sure we are ready to respond to any potential impacts,” Scott said. “By declaring a state of emergency in advance of this storm, we are ensuring that state, regional and local agencies can work together to meet the needs of our communities. We will continue to do all we can to keep our families and visitors safe and informed as this storm approaches our state.”

This story is developing.

Topics Florida Catastrophe Natural Disasters Windstorm Hurricane