Tropical Storm Isaias Strengthens, Hurricane Threat Growing

SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - Tropical Storm Isaias formed over the southwestern Gulf of Mexico early this morning and could rapidly strengthen into a powerful hurricane. Isaias has winds of 40 mph and is moving east-northeast at 8 mph. The National Hurricane Center forecasts it to become a hurricane Thursday and potentially reach 110 mph by early Friday.Isaias is expected to turn north and approach the northern Gulf Coast late Friday or early Saturday. Residents from Louisiana to the Florida Panhandle are being urged to prepare, with Hurricane and Storm Surge Watches likely later Wednesday. The forecast track has shifted east, but uncertainty remains higher than normal.For Florida’s Suncoast, the center is currently forecast to remain well west of the area. However, Isaias could bring higher rain chances, gusty winds, rough Gulf waters and dangerous rip currents. Hurricane Hunters will investigate the storm Wednesday, which should provide a better picture of its strength and future track