The center of the storm is expected to pass through Camden County, or possibly Glynn County or northeast Florida, in the early morning hours Tuesday, but the feeder bands are expected to begin impacting coastal Georgia by late Monday afternoon to evening.
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Hurricane forecasters issued a tropical storm warning for the roughly 400-mile stretch between Indian Pass and Englewood on the Gulf Coast of Florida and on the east coast from Sebastian Inlet to the South Santee River in SC.
The storm is forecast to hit the area Monday afternoon and then move north along the East Coast.
Scott said his choice for counties that were included in the emergency declaration was dictated by warnings issued by the National Weather Service.
Some strengthening is forecast before it reaches the coast of Florida.
Threats of 3-5 inches of rain – and the possibility of 8 inches in some places – have people in northwest Florida bracing for flooding from Tropical Storm Colin.
Tropical storm-force winds extend out up to 230 miles to the southeast of Colin’s center.
“If last night was a “no storm” and the water was nearly up to the hump in my yard I’m anxious”, Milligan said, motioning to about knee level.
The Tampa Bay area will see additional rains from the east side of the storm, which will likely create tropical storm conditions.
A second tropical storm warning was also in effect on the Atlantic coast from Altamaha Sound in Georgia to Sebastian Inlet in Florida.
Winds may gust greater than 40 miles per hour, and an isolated tornado can not be ruled out as bands of rain continue to push through the area.
Localized coastal flooding and unsafe surf is possible along the Florida East coast within the Tropical Storm Watch area.
Sand bags have been distributed to residents in St. Petersburg, Tampa and nearby cities.
Gov. Rick Scott posptoned a scheduled meeting with presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump.
Flash Flood and Flood watches have been issued for portions of the WTOC Viewing Area through early Tuesday morning.
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“This looks to be more of a rain/heavy rain event rather than strong to severe storms”, Miller said. He’s lived in Florida since the late 1970s and hasn’t ever prepared for a storm this early.
