RIAUGREEN.COM - Tropical storm Milton formed in the Gulf of Mexico on Sunday (6/10) morning. The system is expected to head towards the Florida Peninsula, United States.

According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC) the system will intensify rapidly as it moves east northeast across the Gulf of Mexico.  

Milton is approaching major hurricane strength when it reaches the west coast of the Florida Peninsula by the middle of next week.

The NHC is forecasting an increased risk of life-threatening storm surge and wind impacts for parts of the west coast of the Florida Peninsula from Tuesday (Oct 8) evening or Wednesday (Oct 9).

Heavy rainfall will impact parts of Florida starting today and Monday. Heavy rainfall more directly associated with this system is expected Tuesday through Wednesday. This rainfall carries the risk of flooding and flash flooding.

The system is expected to move northeast or east-northeast.

The system is in a favorable environment for further development, and strengthening is possible over the next few days.