Could a hurricane hit Florida this Weekend? Here is what we know

A developing tropical system in the Gulf is raising concerns about possible impacts along the northern Gulf Coast this weekend, including parts of Florida.

The National Hurricane Center says the system in the southwestern Gulf is organizing and is expected to move east before turning north or northeast toward the northern Gulf Coast later this week. Forecasters say residents from Florida’s Panhandle to Louisiana should closely monitor its progress.

The system is expected to strengthen as it moves across the Gulf. Forecast guidance indicates it could reach hurricane strength before approaching the northern Gulf Coast, although its eventual intensity near landfall remains uncertain because stronger wind shear could weaken the storm as it moves north.

Could it hit Florida?

Yes, Florida remains within the area of possible impacts, particularly the Panhandle. But it is still too early to say whether the center of the storm will make landfall in Florida.

Current forecast possibilities extend from Louisiana to the Florida Panhandle, with the system potentially approaching the coast late Friday or early Saturday.

For Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa and Miami, there is currently no indication of a direct hurricane landfall. The primary area to watch in Florida remains the Panhandle.

Heavy rain could be a major concern

Even if the center doesn’t cross Florida, the storm could still bring significant weather to parts of the state.

Heavy rainfall could begin along the Gulf Coast Friday and continue through the weekend. Current projections suggest widespread totals of around 3 to 6 inches, with isolated areas potentially receiving as much as 10 inches. Flooding could become a concern along and east of the storm’s eventual track.

The forecast remains uncertain and could shift as meteorologists collect additional information about the developing system.

For now, Florida residents — especially those in the Panhandle — should continue monitoring official forecasts through the rest of the week.