Florida braces for possible tropical storm, flooding

A tropical storm warning is in effect for a large stretch of Florida's Gulf coast from Indian Pass in the northern Panhandle to Englewood south of Tampa.

The National Hurricane Center in Miami issued the warning before noon EDT Sunday. Tropical storm conditions — including heavy rain and strong wind — are expected to reach the area under the warning by Monday afternoon.

The storm — moving north at about 8 mph (13 kph) — is expected to become a tropical storm before reaching the Florida coast. Maximum sustained winds are near 35 mph (55 kph).

Isolated tornadoes are possible Monday afternoon in parts of Florida and southern Georgia.

Florida Gov. Rick Scott planned a briefing with state emergency management officials Sunday afternoon.

Sand bags were being distributed to residents in St. Petersburg, Tampa and nearby cities.

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