The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) is set to brief Governor Rick Scott on the potential impact of Tropical Depression #16.
Gov. Scott and the FDEM are focusing their attention on the storm currently in the southwest Caribbean. Updates from the National Hurricane Center (NHC) say the storm is northbound and could be in the Gulf of Mexico this weekend.
While it hasn't officially been ruled a tropical storm or a hurricane, Gov. Scott wants Gulf Coast residents to stay vigilant.
Tropical Depression 16 forms in SW Caribbean, heads toward Gulf of Mexico
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Governor Scott said, “As we closely monitor this storm, it is so important for Florida families to remain vigilant, restock hurricane supply kits and ensure hurricane preparedness plans are in place. Based on current forecasts from the National Hurricane Center, we expect the storm to strengthen into Tropical Storm Nate today and move into the Gulf of Mexico this weekend."
He also went on to say "this storm has the potential to become a hurricane and impact the Florida Panhandle this weekend, and families must be ready. Let’s remember, we are still in the heart of hurricane season and while it’s hard to imagine experiencing another storm right now, everyone has to be prepared. We will continue to work with the National Hurricane Center to learn more as this storm develops and I encourage all Floridians to visit www.FLGetAPlan.org today to get prepared.”
