Isaias Could Reach Category 2 Before Gulf Landfall

Tropical Storm Isaias formed in the southwestern Gulf of Mexico on Wednesday and is expected to become a hurricane by Thursday, potentially reaching Category 2 strength before landfall. It is forecast to approach the northern Gulf Coast late Friday or early Saturday, with the most likely landfall zone spanning Mississippi, Alabama and the Florida Panhandle, though its track remains uncertain. Hurricane, tropical-storm and storm-surge watches are in effect along parts of the coast, and Florida has declared an emergency in 25 counties. The storm could bring damaging winds, dangerous storm surge, heavy rain and flooding, with 3 to 6 inches of rain and isolated amounts near 10 inches possible in parts of the region. Officials urged people in potentially affected areas to monitor updates and prepare for changing conditions.