The National Hurricane Center said Friday afternoon that a storm heading toward the Gulf of Mexico was “gradually becoming better organized” and that “conditions appear conducive for further development during the next several days.”
The center also advised people in Florida, Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula and western Cuba, to monitor the progress of the storm.
It said the storm could become a tropical depression this weekend or early next week.
In the news: With Storm Eyeing Florida, Pasco County Has 2 Sandbag Locations Open 24/7
The system, which appeared in a seven-day outlook on a track toward Florida’s west coast, was given a 70 percent chance of formation by Sunday and 90 percent before the end of next week.
If it strengthens into a named storm, it would be Idalia.
Gov. Ron DeSantis directed the state Division of Emergency Management to prepare for the storm that could affect Florida next week.
“Residents should remain vigilant and prepare for possible impacts early next week,” DeSantis said in a post on X, formerly Twitter.
Android Users, Click To Download The Free Press App And Never Miss A Story. Follow Us On Facebook and Twitter. Signup for our free newsletter.
We can’t do this without your help; visit our GiveSendGo page and donate any dollar amount; every penny helps