Tropical Storm Michael strengthened into a category 1 hurricane on Monday, with authorities predicting it was headed for the Gulf of Mexico.
The weather system could produce winds topping 111 mph by Tuesday night, before slamming into the Florida Panhandle or Big Bend, according to the National Hurricane Center.
Midday Monday, winds were already clocking in at 75 mph 140 miles east-northeast of Cozumel, Mexico, with authorities predicting Cuba could see between 4 and 8 inches of rain — which could lead to life-threatening flash floods and mudslides.
Florida Gov. Rick Scott issued a state of emergency for 26 counties, in order to free up resources and put the Florida National Guard on notice.
“This storm will be life-threatening and extremely dangerous,” Scott said Sunday following a briefing at the State Emergency Operations Center.
“Let’s all stay safe and watch this storm closely. As we have seen before, it can change direction and impact any part of our state,” Scott tweeted Monday. “EVERY FAMILY must be prepared. We can rebuild your home, but we cannot rebuild your life.”
Worry over Hurricane Michael has also postponed the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Public Safety Commission’s highly anticipated hearings into the high school massacre scheduled for this week, as many of those on the commission live in the panhandle. Former Broward Sheriff’s Deputy Scot Peterson, who was criticized for not rushing into the building, was expected to testify.
With Post wires
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