Tropical storm Colin has officially formed in the Gulf of Mexico, according to the National Hurricane Center.
The National Hurricane Center in Miami issued a warning before noon Sunday. Tropical storm conditions, including heavy rain and strong wind, are expected to reach the area under the warning by Monday afternoon.
The storm, moving north at about 8 mph, is expected to become a tropical storm before reaching the Florida coast. Maximum sustained winds are near 35 mph.
TD3 is now Tropical Storm Colin! Tune in to @nbc6 at 6pm for deets on how it will affect #Sofla #Miami #FLL #FLkeys pic.twitter.com/SOsx8LVRKQ — Erika Delgado (@ErikaNBC6) June 5, 2016
Regardless of development, heavy rains and flooding are expected in the Yucatan Peninsula, western Cuba, the Florida Keys and Florida's Gulf Coast over the next few days.
Governor Rick Scott urged Florida residents, visitors and businesses Saturday to prepare for severe weather and potential flooding as the National Weather Service monitors the developing tropical system which could impact the Gulf Coast as early as Monday morning
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Florida Division of Emergency Management Director Bryan W. Koon said, “Even if this system does not develop into a named storm, it still poses significant risks from flooding, damaging winds and tornadoes, and rip currents."
Florida Gov. Rick Scott planned a briefing with state emergency management officials Sunday afternoon.
Sand bags were being distributed to residents in St. Petersburg, Tampa and nearby cities.
NBC 6 has everything you need to know for the 2016 hurrican season!