The National Hurricane Center stated that the storm will expand in size, causing widespread effects throughout the Bay Area and Central Florida, even for regions outside the forecast cone.
Meteorologist Sternberg noted that record-high water temperatures will offer "unlimited fuel" for the storm's rapid intensification.
Storm Alerts and Advisories!
A hurricane warning is currently in effect from Anclote River to Mexico Beach, covering the coastal regions of Citrus, Hernando, and Pasco counties. A tropical storm warning has been issued for the rest of the state except the western Panhandle.
A storm surge warning has been issued from Flamingo to Indian Pass, including Tampa Bay and Charlotte Harbor.
A flood watch is in effect until Friday morning across the Bay Area and much of the state except east Central Florida and the western Panhandle.
